Meet the Team
Standback General Contractors
Thomas Amend
FOUNDER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
As COO and co-founder, Tom brings structure and vision to StandBack’s operations. With a background in business administration and firsthand experience in the trades, he’s developed the systems and team culture that power the company’s growth. Known for mentoring others and turning ideas into action, Tom helps push the company forward—day by day, plan by plan.
Jim Amend
FOUNDER/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
James leads StandBack as CEO with clarity, grit, and heart. Since founding the company in 2009, he’s been committed to building a business that delivers quality work and positive impact. Backed by a degree in business administration, deep field experience, and a passion for community engagement, James blends strategic growth with boots-on-the-ground leadership.
Evan Santoro
SENIOR ESTIMATOR
Evan pairs two decades of estimating, operations, and technology leadership with a sharp attention to detail. As Senior Estimator and Senior IT Manager, he bridges cost analysis with process optimization—ensuring projects are not only feasible but efficient. Known for his calm demeanor and deep technical expertise, Evan is a steady hand in a fast-paced industry.
Matthew Lawrence
DIRECTOR OF CONSTRUCTION
Matt drives complex projects with clarity and control. As Director of Construction, he leads teams across multi-million dollar jobs—from LEGOLAND to federal healthcare facilities— bringing deep technical expertise and strong leadership. Known for balancing big-picture oversight with sharp execution, Matt ensures every project meets StandBack's high standards.
Lauren Helstrom
EXEC. OPERATIONS MANAGER
Lauren keeps StandBack’s operations moving with clarity and control. As Executive Operations Manager, she supports leadership while overseeing day-to-day systems—from vendor coordination to internal workflows. With OSHA 30 certification and a background in marketing, project logistics, and client communication, Lauren brings structure, adaptability, and insight to everything she touches.
Dominic Coppola
PROJECT MANAGER
Dominic brings a strong command of both residential and commercial construction to his role as Project Manager. With experience spanning HVAC, plumbing, and ground-up builds across multiple states, he’s known for balancing precision and efficiency. His calm approach and clear communication keep projects moving—and clients confident—every step of the way.
Robert Amend
SUPERINTENDENT
With over 35 years of construction supervision, Robert is a cornerstone of StandBack’s field operations. His portfolio spans everything from luxury hotels to complex office renovations. As Superintendent, he’s known for leading subcontractors with precision, maintaining schedules, and upholding the highest safety standards—all while keeping projects on track and teams aligned.
Charlene Sepulveda
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST
Charlene keeps the gears turning as our Accounts Receivable Specialist and Office Manager. With a background in sales and operations and nearly seven years at StandBack, she brings a solutions-first mindset to every challenge. Known for her consistency and strong relationships with both internal teams and vendors, Charlene ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Tom O’Brien
SUPERINTENDENT
Tom brings decades of construction experience and rock-solid reliability to every jobsite. As Superintendent, he’s known for keeping teams on schedule and operations running smoothly. With a deep understanding of field coordination and site logistics, Tom ensures projects progress with precision, safety, and accountability from start to finish.
Juliette Ruff
HEAD OF MARKETING
Juliette leads StandBack’s marketing with a builder’s mindset and a brand strategist’s eye. As Head of Marketing, she draws from years of hands-on construction industry experience to craft messaging that’s as clear as it is compelling. Known for her creative instincts and operational savvy, Juliette helps connect clients and communities to the heart of StandBack’s work.
Marc Colantuono
HEALTH & SAFETY OFFICER
Marc brings a strong foundation in construction oversight and a steadfast commitment to jobsite safety. As Health & Safety Officer and Superintendent, he ensures each project runs efficiently while upholding the highest safety standards. Known for his hands-on leadership and attention to detail, Marc coordinates crews, manages site operations, and fosters a culture of accountability and care from the ground up.
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