Is it worth the risk? As an A/E firm principal, you’ve probably asked yourself this question dozens of times. And in no business is risk more apparent than in the opening, closing, and management of branch offices.

A firm’s growth is often tied to its ability to successfully establish additional offices. How do you know when it’s the right time to open a branch …or close one? How sure are you that the branch won’t be stolen from under your nose … or managed poorly by an employee who places personal goals above those of the firm? And, perhaps more important, once a branch is up and running, how do you prevent a loss of focus? Of clients? Of money? Or worse… of people?! 

For starters, firms must consider their branch managers nothing less than mini CEOs. Successful branch office managers:

• Operate the branch office as a profitable entity. They’re experienced in profit accountability, since they must demonstrate and achieve financial viability as a branch.

• Manage all office costs. They have to consider the impact of all costs—profit as well as overhead—on operations.

• Promote market awareness. They must know demand and need for the branch’s services. They must also be aware of the issues that concern clients.

• Keep up-to-date on human resource issues. They often serve as personnel manager as well as “head” of the branch. 

• Understand what it takes to be a successful branch operation. 

Managing a branch may be risky, but it does have ample rewards if done correctly. The question is: Are you ready to take the risk?  

For more tips and advice on managing a multiple office firm, check out PSMJ's complimentary ebook Branch Office Optimization Strategies, a clear and concise overview–direct from PSMJ’s A/E industry experts–on what it really takes to open and grow a branch office. 

Other Branch Office related blog posts:

Data Dive: Best Practices in Branch Office Management

Letter from the Field: Growing a Branch Office

Six Battle-Tested Strategies to Establishing a Branch Office

Three Pieces of Advice for Evaluating Branch Office Success