Brailsford & Dunlavey and Project Management Advisors Join Forces to Revolutionize Program Management

Merging Strengths: Brailsford & Dunlavey Partners With Project Management Advisors

In a significant move in the realm of program management, Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D), a part of Bernhard Capital Partners' portfolio, has officially announced a merger with Project Management Advisors (PMA). This union is expected to enhance service offerings and geographic reach, creating a formidable player in the industry that will serve clients across various sectors including education, healthcare, and municipal projects.

A New Era for Program Management

The merger marks an important milestone as it combines the expertise and reputations of two nationally recognized firms. Clients can now expect a more integrated service model that includes strategic planning, project execution, operations consulting, and owner's representation. This approach is not just about expanding their service portfolio; it is about delivering better solutions to clients operating in some of the most critical sectors impacting the economy today.

Expanding Capabilities and Reach

The newly formed entity will leverage combined resources and industry knowledge, focusing on an array of distinct areas such as K-12 education, higher education, healthcare, life sciences, technology, and public infrastructure projects. With more than 450 professionals working from offices across key markets including Northern and Southern California, Chicago, New York, and Washington D.C., the firm aims to enhance its national presence significantly. Based on the rankings released in the 2025 Engineering News-Record’s Top Program Management Firms, they are poised to secure a place among the top 20 firms in the country.

Client-Centric Philosophy

Paul Brailsford, Co-CEO of B&D, articulated the vision for this merger, stating that it is not merely about scaling operations but fundamentally improving the quality of service. “Our clients operate in industries most critical to our nation's economy... In combining our firms, we are well positioned for accelerated growth built upon an incredibly strong foundation,” he asserted. This sentiment embodies the shared commitment both firms have in prioritizing client needs while focusing on quality outcomes.

Leadership Insights

Roger McCarron, CEO of PMA, echoed this philosophy by emphasizing the rarity of such an opportunity to unite two likeminded organizations. He celebrated their reputations in the marketplace, noting that this merger would be transformative, creating an institution with even greater capabilities for their clients. Such synthesis promises enhanced project delivery and operational excellence, rooted in a strong client-focused approach from both legacy firms.

Strategic Partnership Informed by a Shared Mission

This union follows B&D's partnership with Bernhard Capital Partners in 2024, aimed at bolstering resources and capabilities. Mark Spender, a partner at BCP, remarked on the talent that both firms bring to the table and noted how their collaboration will establish a unified platform capable of catering to diverse infrastructure needs.

Looking Ahead

As they integrate, both B&D and PMA have reassured stakeholders that the transition will be smooth, with existing teams, services, and ongoing projects remaining unaffected during this period. The goal is to enhance client experiences without any disruptions, all while expanding into the future with a wider array of services.

Conclusion

The merger of Brailsford & Dunlavey and Project Management Advisors signifies a transformative event in the program management landscape. It not only showcases the continued evolution of industry leaders but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, shared values, and undertaking complex projects with a focus on outcomes that matter. As they step into this new chapter, clients will undoubtedly benefit from a more robust service platform designed to address the challenges of modern infrastructure demands. Both firms are set to continue thriving, expanding their legacy in program management for years to come.