Our Team

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 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.”

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.”