Partners in Building, No. 153 on the 2026 Next 100, has named Chris Lemming as the new president and Jim Lemming has retired from CEO and president. The transition marks the next chapter in the company’s leadership in conjunction with its 40th anniversary. Jim Lemming acquired Partners in Building in 2010 and has guided its growth across Texas and Tennessee.
Under his leadership, the home builder has expanded into new markets, fostered relationships with master plan developers, and strengthened its “Build on Your Lot” program. Partners in Building currently builds in Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Nashville.
“Serving homeowners and helping families achieve their dream of building a custom home has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life,” says Jim Lemming. “When I acquired Partners in Building in 2010, I saw an opportunity to build upon an already strong company and continue its tradition of delivering exceptional homes and customer experiences. I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished and grateful to the employees, trade partners, developers, and homeowners who have been part of our journey. I could not be more confident in Chris’s ability to lead the company forward.”
The Next Chapter
After beginning his career as an attorney, Chris Lemming joined the company in 2015 bringing experience in legal, operations, and strategy. He has held roles across land development, construction, project management, and operations, and most recently served as division president for Dallas-Fort Worth operations.
Chris Lemming’s appointment follows a deliberate succession process years in the making. He has worked alongside Jim and the leadership team while shaping the organization’s strategy and long-term vision.
“It is an incredible honor to lead a company that means so much to our family and to the people who have helped build it over the past 40 years,” says Chris Lemming. “Partners in Building has always been focused on creating exceptional homes and delivering an outstanding experience for every homeowner. That commitment will not change. We have an extraordinary team, strong relationships throughout the industry, and tremendous opportunities ahead. I am excited to build on the company’s success and help lead it into its next era of growth.”
Jim Lemming will continue to serve as chairman to provide counsel and support a smooth transition. “As we celebrate 40 years of Partners in Building, this transition reflects both our history and our future,” Jim Lemming adds. “Chris has earned the trust and respect of our employees, partners, and customers through his leadership and dedication. I am excited to see where he and our team will take the company in the years ahead.”
The firm will continue its growth across Texas and Tennessee while delivering a personalizing building experience.
