Relationships are central to what we do. Many of our customers and team members have been with us for decades, some going back to the mid-90s.
In this Leadership Spotlight, we speak with Chris Graham, Portfolio President at Constellation Homebuilder Systems, to learn more about his journey, his expertise in the homebuilding software sector, and the unique approach Perseus Group brings to its portfolio companies.
Certainly! I’m Chris Graham, and I’ve been with Constellation since 2005. I manage the Homebuilder portfolio, which includes a range of software products for home builders, from small builders to large public companies across Canada and the US. It’s a dynamic space with products that serve the entire spectrum of homebuilding needs.
Relationships are central to what we do. Many of our customers and team members have been with us for decades, some going back to the mid-90s. Our team has the industry experience needed to understand and address our customers’ needs effectively. In the HomeBuilder Group alone, we have 55 employees who have worked for a homebuilder, which adds real value and insight.
While there are always buzzwords about the latest tech, we take a managed approach to innovation. We constantly experiment, gather feedback, and explore new features that can truly benefit our customers. We’re also focused on fostering collaboration and efficiency across the building process, with robust reporting and analytics to keep everyone informed and connected.
I’d say our team is one of the biggest advantages. New acquisitions benefit from the experience and stability we offer, knowing that Constellation won’t sell off companies. Our long-term stability ensures our customers and employees aren’t constantly adapting to new ownership. It builds trust, which is invaluable in this industry.
The early acquisitions of NEWSTAR and BuildTopia have become flagship products. We invest in improving these companies, from product enhancements to support teams. Many of these businesses have multiplied in size, providing career opportunities and a stronger market presence, which has been beneficial to both customers and employees.
Half of our company is dedicated to R&D, which is an anomaly across software businesses, especially for those that are stable and profitable. Having a large R&D team allows us to respond quickly to issues, plan predictable updates, and continuously add features. We prioritize both immediate support and ongoing product development, which keeps our solutions modern and aligned with customer needs.
We help these businesses grow by leveraging our large customer base and integrating products for ease of use. Our best practices for implementation and long-term product investment keep systems evolving and delivering value. Our account managers focus on maximizing customer satisfaction, ensuring that each product remains relevant and robust.
Think long term. Constellation’s approach isn’t about quick wins; it’s about sustainable value. A seller should consider how they value stability for employees and customers alike. If I were selling, I’d look for a buyer that provides growth opportunities for my team and continuity for my customers.
Ten years ago, I enjoyed working closely with customers and building products, but I underestimated how powerful those customer relationships could become. The level of trust and connection we’ve built with customers over the years is incredibly rewarding and foundational to our success. Reflecting on where we were and where we are now, I couldn’t have imagined just how much those relationships would contribute to our growth.
Constellation is a dynamic place to work, with a culture that encourages career growth and supports mobility within the company. Though each business unit is focused on its industry, our best practices are transferable, offering employees unique opportunities worldwide. It’s a place where people can truly build a fulfilling career.
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