New leadership at Builders Association of the Twin Cities

The Builders Association of the Twin Cities (BATC), the trade group that represents metro-area homebuilders, has a new board of directors and a new president with something of a sparkling résumé. Chris Contreras, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in Eden Prairie, was elected by the group's membership to a yearlong term as the association's president. His duties will include leading a 17-member board, and overseeing the activities of the 1,100-member trade association.

BATC provides marketing, advocacy and networking opportunities for area builders. BATC runs the biannual Parade of Homes house and several other events aimed at promoting the industry. Contreras was sworn in by past president Curt Christensen, owner of Lee Lyn Construction. Contreras' focus this year will be on increasing membership, advocacy and strengthening the association's brand.

"Our industry is facing a number of very important challenges right now that could have a major dampening effect locally," Contreras said. "We need to come together as BATC members and get involved to make sure our industries' concerns are heard."

Before stepping into the homebuilding industry, Contreras worked for more than a decade as a regional manager for a large-volume jeweler. In 2003 he was a sales agent for Ryan Homes and joined Ryland Homes in 2004.

Contreras has served on a number of committees, including the Parade of Homes committee for three years, and the large-volume builder committee, which he chaired in 2011-2012. He served as BATC's treasurer in 2013, and vice president in 2014.

He lives in Prior Lake with his wife, two children and extended family.