Our Team

Jeff Birnbaum

President and Founder

Jeff Birnbaum founded S.L. Shaw & Associates, Inc. in 1989 after graduating from Louisiana State University.

As founder, owner, developer and general contractor, Jeff has led his team to the successful completion of almost 2 million square feet of institutional and professional office buildings including schools, museums, sports facilities, retail and a full scope of medical facilities.

“I always had a passion to build things to overcome the obstacles. I still do. It can be a challenge bringing all the parts and parties together. When you do it right with integrity, and timeless components that meet the needs of the user and the community, there is no greater reward.”

We strive to start out right, with a good foundation both personally and professionally. A good foundation is essential to a timeless structure. You must be dedicated and keep grinding for the ultimate final product that our clients appreciate and occupy for years.

When I turn my mind from work, I turn to my wife Donna and my children, Laura and Gabe, and my dog Brees. Sometimes I get in a bogey round of golf.

Phillip Manchester

Managing Partner

Phillip Manchester is a graduate of Louisiana State University, holding degrees in both Finance and Biological Science. A member of the SL Shaw team for nearly two decades, Phillip is an integral leader who manages the company’s projects from start to finish.

Phillip enjoys traveling, playing sports, spending time with his two sons, Major and Maxwell, and his friends. He is also thrilled to welcome his parents as his new neighbors in Charleston after their lifelong residency in LA.

“Although my education background is in Finance, my passion has always centered around design. Being a partner in SL Shaw has given me the opportunity to simultaneously utilize my degree while also letting me feed my passion for planning and constructing unique and timeless developments and buildings that dot the landscape of the places we have been so blessed to work. I truly love what we do.”

John E. Jenkins, PMP (J.J.)

Construction Manager

J.J. grew up in the Charleston, SC area and attended Clemson University, where he studied Civil Engineering. After graduation, he worked for an engineering firm for a few years before deciding that construction management was his passion.

He has been in Project Management for over 9 years and currently serves as the Construction Manager for SL Shaw. As Construction Manager he coordinates and supervises all active projects.

J.J. is currently pursuing his MBA with a specialization in Finance from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina. He has his PMP Certification and currently serves as the Vice President of Professional Development for the Charleston Chapter of PMI.

In his spare time, he volunteers as a mentor at the local elementary and middle school. He enjoys spending time with his wife Hillary and his two boys, Jax and Cruse. He also enjoys running and occasionally runs local races.

“When I first met the ownership team of SL Shaw, I realized that they were ethical people that deliver excellent products, and I wanted to be a part of it. This is the perfect place to continue to grow my expertise and deliver quality buildings that current and future generations can enjoy.”

Levi Nogues

Project Manager

Levi brings to the table 25 years of experience in the construction industry, ranging from residential to commercial development.

With a background in management, his strengths include collaboration, team building, and leadership. These accolades, paired with a lighthearted and friendly personality, have led to success in the collaborative construction trades.

With roots in northern New England, Levi and his family moved to Charleston in 2010. They enjoy all things outdoors, travel, and family time.

Davis Hutson

Project Manager

Davis was born and raised in Vance, South Carolina, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors. He graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Civil Engineering, equipping him with the technical expertise needed to excel in his field.

After working in the industry for the last 4 years, he recently joined the SL Shaw team. Davis is eager to apply his knowledge and skills to contribute to the company’s projects and overall success.

In his free time, he enjoys hunting and fishing, as well as spending time with his wife, Meghan, and their family and friends.

Pauline Lombardi

Project Development Manager

Pauline Lombardi moved from Belgium to the U.S. after turning 18 and originally focused on a career in communications. After obtaining her master’s in Public & Organization Relations, Pauline worked for an advertising agency and became the Social Media Content and Strategy Manager for a Fortune 20 client.

Also a restaurant owner alongside her husband Peter, Pauline loves to discover all the new great places to eat in the Charleston area and how to grow their LPC Kitchen restaurant. Pauline has always had high interest in design, architecture, and art and feels that SL Shaw has finally given her a home to explore this passion.

“After I had the chance of working with the SL Shaw team on our restaurant, I knew I wanted to stay close and maintain that friendship. The passion behind their work and internal culture right away made me feel like I belonged. Joining the SL Shaw team has felt like a meant to be moment, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to change my career around.”