The Davenport-based Russell company has named Cara Pifer as its vice president of people and culture.
In this role, she will lead Russell’s human resources strategy, guiding talent acquisition, team member development, and initiatives that strengthen the company’s culture and organizational effectiveness.
Established in 1983, Russell is a regional and national provider of commercial construction and
development services headquartered in Davenport, with offices in Iowa City, St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield, Missouri. Russell has delivered more than $7 billion in projects across 34 states.
Ms. Pifer brings nearly 20 years of experience in human resources. She has built a reputation for leading high-performing teams, optimizing people processes, and implementing strategies that support sustainable organizational growth. At Russell, she will partner closely with leadership to attract, develop, and retain top talent while advancing programs that enhance engagement, performance, and career development across the company.
“Cara brings a thoughtful, people-centered approach to leadership,” said Caitlin Russell, president at Russell. “Her experience and passion for developing talent will play an important role as we continue to grow and invest in our people.”
“I’m excited to join a company that places such a strong emphasis on people and purpose,” said Ms. Pifer. “Russell’s mission and values strongly align with my own passion for developing talent and building environments where people can grow, collaborate, and do their best work.”
She holds a bachelor of business administration from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and has earned several professional certifications, including Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Korn Ferry Certified Coach and Profiler 360 Coach.
