7-9-2024
Igor Ristic
Project Manager | Empire Construction
Born in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992, Igor Ristic’s journey is a testament to resilience and achievement. At the age of five, he and his family sought refuge in the United States during the Bosnian War, marking the beginning of his story.
Igor’s educational journey led him to Norman, OK, where he graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Communication, laying the foundation for his career in leadership and management.
With over a decade of management experience, Igor’s career has been a dynamic blend of Operations and Project Management roles. His current role as an Project Manager at Empire Construction encompasses more than four years of dedicated project-driven leadership. Igor is responsible for overseeing two to four projects at a time, each ranging from $2 to $12 million. His passion lies in developing and leading teams of various sizes to achieve mission-driven objectives. His track record includes successfully managing multiple teams, delivering exceptional projects, and ensuring client satisfaction.
Before venturing into project management, Igor held a key operations role as a General Manager at Heyday Entertainment in downtown Oklahoma City. Under his leadership, the location experienced a transformative period of operations improvement, marked by a commitment to influencing positive change. Igor and his team initiated and executed a series of strategic initiatives that not only enhanced efficiency but also elevated the overall performance of the establishment.
During his tenure, Igor spearheaded comprehensive operational restructuring, streamlining processes, and optimizing resource allocation. This proactive approach led to a significant increase in productivity and customer satisfaction. Under his guidance, his team achieved remarkable results, including a 130% of goal achievement for events, the lowest turnover rate in the location’s history, and a consistent monthly increase in foot traffic.
Igor’s ability to influence change and drive operations improvement reflects his dedication to creating impactful transformations within organizations. His leadership style not only fosters collaboration but also empowers individuals to take ownership of their roles and contribute to the collective success of the team.
Igor’s commitment to personal and professional growth led him to earn his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Southern Methodist University in May 2022, specializing in Strategy and Entrepreneurship. His academic achievement complements his practical experience, enhancing his ability to navigate complex business challenges with strategic insight.
Chair of the Day – President Suzanne Mitchell