Newton, MA, December 2, 2025 — Commodore Builders is pleased to announce that John Tobin has joined the firm as Vice President and Leader of the Retail and Hospitality Group, bringing over three decades of experience that spans construction management, design oversight, and client representation for some of the most recognized names in the restaurant, retail, and hotel industries.

Tobin comes to Commodore from The Related Companies, where he was Senior Vice President of Design and Construction, overseeing all food and beverage projects in New York City. He previously headed the NYC Hospitality Division at Shawmut Design and Construction, managing an expansive portfolio of restaurants, hotels, and event spaces across the country.

Tobin began his career as a residential carpenter on Cape Cod before transitioning into commercial construction in Boston. Starting as a Superintendent and progressing through roles as Project Manager, Director of Construction, Director of Hotels, and SVP of Design & Construction, he has built a reputation for excellence through hands-on leadership and a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver memorable guest environments. His unique perspective, gained from working on both sides of the table as builder and client, positions him to bring a balanced, relationship-driven approach to Commodore’s growing Retail and Hospitality portfolio.

With more than 300 completed restaurants, retail, and hospitality projects combined, Tobin’s career highlights include iconic Boston destinations such as Flour, Neptune Oyster Bar, O YA, Scampo, Nebo, Legal Seafood Harborside, Davio’s and Bleacher Bar. His national work includes Per Se, Le Bernardin, 11 Madison Park, Nobu, Del Frisco’s, and Hard Rock Café. His hotel-sector projects include the Boston Harbor Hotel, Marriott Copley Place, Boston Park Plaza, Waldorf-Astoria, The Palace, InterContinental-Barclay, and St. Regis, among others.

Tom Comeau, President of Commodore Builders, says, “John’s combination of field experience, client insight, and executive leadership will enable Commodore to accelerate our growth in the retail and hospitality market. He brings a level of sophistication and understanding of client expectations that will elevate our delivery and strengthen our partnerships.”

Based at Commodore’s Newton headquarters, Tobin will lead the firm’s Retail and Hospitality Group, overseeing teams that serve clients across New England and beyond.

About Commodore Builders
Commodore Builders is a veteran-owned construction management firm headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts, with offices in Boston and Nashville. The company offers a full range of preconstruction and construction management services across multiple sectors, including life sciences, corporate interiors, institutional, public, commercial, and retail and hospitality. Commodore is consistently ranked among New England’s top construction management firms for its dedication to safety, quality, and building long-term client relationships.