Buddy Heins brings a wealth of experience in both construction and real estate to the Merit Construction team. A native of Knoxville, Buddy joined Merit in 1998 to lead the company’s marketing and business development initiatives. He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee with a degree in civil engineering.

Before joining Merit, Buddy played a significant role in the cellular communications industry, where he was instrumental in acquiring and developing nearly 250 cell sites across the southeastern United States. He also led the development of a new network for Sprint in East Tennessee.

Since becoming part of Merit, Buddy has helped create innovative marketing strategies, including a rebranding with a new logo and website. Under his leadership, the firm’s construction revenues have grown more than fourfold.

In addition to his professional work, Buddy is deeply involved in the community. He holds leadership positions with the Great Smoky Mountain Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Bearden High School Foundation, The Builders Exchange of Tennessee, The Development Corporation of Knox County, and the East Tennessee Economic Council.

Buddy lives in Knoxville with his wife, Shayna, and their son and daughter.