Cumming Group Acquires RGD Project Management

Cumming Group has significantly amplified its capabilities within the life sciences manufacturing sector through the strategic acquisition of RGD Project Management. This move substantially strengthens the firm's Advanced Technologies division, particularly enhancing its footprint in the critical North Carolina Research Triangle, a prominent hub for biopharmaceutical innovation and production.

The integration of RGD Project Management, a firm established in 1999 with an 81-person team, brings specialized expertise in technical project management and advisory services tailored for pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients. With a track record of over 2,200 completed projects in high-technology and pharmaceutical manufacturing, RGD is recognized for its proficiency in navigating complex, schedule-sensitive programs for leading industry players.

This acquisition directly aligns with the robust investment activity observed in North Carolina's life sciences industry. The state has recently seen over $10 billion in manufacturing investments, supporting approximately 860 life sciences companies and more than 100 biopharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. Cumming Group's expanded Advanced Technologies division now comprises over 700 professionals globally, enhancing its capacity to manage intricate industrial and life sciences developments.

Derek Hutchison, President and CEO of Cumming Group, highlighted the strategic importance of the deal, stating, "RGD’s deep life sciences expertise and strong presence in North Carolina meaningfully accelerate our advanced technologies strategy, particularly on the East Coast." He further emphasized that the addition of RGD bolsters the division's capabilities and reinforces the company's commitment to supporting clients across the built environment.

Michael Rafetto, Co-Founder and President of RGD Project Management, expressed enthusiasm for the synergy, noting, "Becoming a part of Cumming Group allows us to preserve that trusted approach while leveraging the scale of a larger organization with access to expanded technical resources and an international Advanced Technologies group that aligns perfectly with our life sciences focus." This sentiment was echoed by Jack Deloso, Co-Founder and CEO of RGD, who added, "By joining Cumming Group, we’re giving our team and our clients access to broader capabilities while staying true to the values that have defined RGD."

The integration is expected to yield significant benefits for clients requiring sophisticated project management in technically demanding fields such as life sciences, semiconductors, data centers, and advanced manufacturing. The combined entity is better positioned to deliver on the increasing demand for specialized expertise in these rapidly evolving sectors, contributing to the continued growth and development of critical infrastructure projects across the United States.