R.J. Leeper Construction Newsroom

One of Charlotte’s largest Black-owned companies has named a new president after four years of operating by management committee. 

Bright Hope Capital proudly announces the appointment of Lorie Spratley as President of R.J. Leeper Construction (Leeper Construction), marking a pivotal milestone in the company’s continued expansion and industry leadership.

Ranked by Companywide revenue in 2023

Leeper #2

WINNER: TOP CIVIC OR NONPROFIT DEVELOPMENT 2024

The Hornets have assembled the project team, comprised of:

• CAA Icon, consultant to the team 
• Populous, architect and design firm 
• Gilbane Building Co. and R.J. Leeper Construction, contractors

Rodgers Builders and RJ Leeper Construction, both based in Charlotte, are partnering as contractors on the project. 

In 2020, Coley and McColl, along with former Duke Energy Corp. executive Lloyd Yates, created Bright Hope Capital, a Charlotte investment firm with an emphasis on social capital and minority-owned businesses. Bright Hope owns R.J. Leeper Construction and Big Prime Hauling. 

Kenneth A. Holt, CFO for R.J. Leeper Construction, is a finalist in CBJ's 2023 CFO of the Year Awards program.

Lorie McCowan Spratley

Chief operating officer, Bright Hope Capital

A partnership between RJ Leeper Construction, its construction partners, Urban League of Central Carolinas and NCWorks Career Center aims to make those introductions.   

Ranked by Local billings in 2023

In 2020, they became business partners, investing with former Duke Energy Corp. executive Lloyd Yates in Bright Hope Capital, a firm created to invest in — and build — minority-owned companies.

Charlotte Convention Center

FINALIST: TOP CIVIC/NONPROFIT DEVELOPMENT 

Holder-Edison Foard-Leeper general contractor team

Ranked by Companywide revenue in 2022

Leeper #1