Charlotte, NC – March 7, 2024 – 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.

A seasoned executive with deep expertise in financial oversight, risk management, and operational excellence, Spratley has played a key role in securing and leading high-profile projects, including Atrium Health’s Pearl Innovation District and the Charlotte Hornets Performance Center.

Since joining as Chief Operating Officer in 2021, following Bright Hope Capital’s acquisition of Leeper Construction, she has been instrumental in driving efficiency, profitability, and strategic growth, positioning the company as one of the largest Black-owned businesses in Charlotte. Now, as President, she will lead the company into its next era of market expansion, operational innovation, and industry leadership.

Spratley’s appointment comes on the heels of a record-breaking year for the company. “We are proud to announce that 2024 was a record year, with revenues of $178.4 million, representing a 42% growth over 2023,” said Spratley. “This milestone reflects our expanding market presence, key partnerships, and our ability to deliver high-impact projects.”

Since Bright Hope Capital’s acquisition of Leeper Construction, the company has experienced rapid growth:

• 2020: 19 Employees | $40.7M Revenue
• 2024: 61 Employees | $178.4M Revenue 
• Overall Growth Since 2020: 338% Revenue Increase

Spratley credits the company’s strong leadership, operational discipline, and commitment to delivering quality projects as key drivers of this success.

Building on this momentum, under Spratley’s leadership, the company will embark on its most ambitious growth phase yet, with a strategic focus on:

• Expanding into the Wilmington/Triad/Triangle markets, strengthening regional presence
• Strategic acquisitions to enhance capabilities and market reach.
• Targeted industry expansion into healthcare, sports, and entertainment sectors.
• Cutting-edge project execution to set new industry benchmarks.

In addition, Spratley announced that the company will undergo a rebranding campaign under the new name Bright Hope Construction. “While we will keep the R.J. Leeper banner, we believe transitioning to DBA Bright Hope Construction will better reflect our vision and our continued journey to differentiate ourselves from our competitors,” said Spratley. “This evolution represents both our heritage and our future as we expand into new markets and take on larger, more complex projects.”

“Lorie is a transformative leader who has redefined operational excellence at Leeper Construction,” said Hugh McColl, founder of Bright Hope Capital. “Her strategic mindset and passion for talent development will be invaluable as we expand into new markets like Wilmington and solidify our position as an industry leader.”

Spratley emphasized that the company’s mission remains unchanged—delivering high-quality construction solutions with a commitment to excellence, integrity, and community impact. “Our next chapter will be defined by smart growth, operational efficiency, and a deep commitment to delivering exceptional projects,” said Spratley. “I am honored to lead this company forward and build on its legacy of excellence.”

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lorie Spratley
President
R.J. Leeper Construction
(704) 756-1212
Lorie@LeeperConstruction.com

Lauren D. Wooden
SVP | Marketing, Branding, Communications
Bright Hope Capital
(818) 699-7915
Lauren@BrightHope.Capital

About Bright Hope Capital, LLC
Bright Hope Capital, LLC is a Charlotte-based investment firm co-founded in 2020 by retired Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl, EY’s former Central Region Private Leader Malcomb Coley, and NiSource CEO Lloyd Yates. The firm focuses on acquiring and scaling Black- and Brown-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment, job creation, and long-term business growth. Current subsidiaries include Big Prime Hauling and R.J. Leeper Construction. Learn more at www.brighthope.capital

About R.J. Leeper Construction, LLC
Founded in 1994, R.J. Leeper Construction is a premier construction management and general contracting firm headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a subsidiary of Bright Hope Capital, LLC, the company is recognized for its commitment to quality, diversity, and community impact. Leeper Construction’s diverse portfolio includes multi-phase developments, airport expansions, convention center renovations, and educational institutions, all designed to enhance the built environment and strengthen communities. Learn more at www.leeperconstruction.com

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