Military service during World War II brought the founding principals of Morley Building Company to Southern California. Morley Benjamin returned in 1947 to build a few single-family homes in Pacoima, then larger tracts in Lakewood and Whittier. A year later, he was joined by Sherman “Tex” Given and they remained partners for 33 years.
During the 1950s, the re-named Morley Construction Company moved into competitively bid public work, completing schools and civic buildings throughout the region. In the ’60s and ’70s, construction for private clients predominated with negotiated contracts and often repeat customers. The company built commercial buildings, recording and television studios, and thousands of apartment units.
Bert Lewitt joined the organization as a project manager in 1970 and Morley’s son, Mark Benjamin, started as an apprentice carpenter shortly thereafter. The salaried staff grew as did the number of trade workers in the field. Tex Given retired in 1980, which began the transition to a new generation of leadership.
The 1980s was a decade of growth and change. The salaried staff continued to expand as middle managers and college graduates joined the company. An employee ownership plan was created to give staff a stake in the company’s progress. In 1984, Benchmark Contractors, Inc. was formed to meet the needs of a growing residential market. At the same time, a holding company now known as Morley Builders was formed to help market services.
With the turn of the century, Morley continued its managed growth in both human and financial resources. The early 2000s saw Morley’s reputation for quality take on new prominence as the builder of choice for new landmarks. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, the Getty Villa Museum, and the California Science Center were just the beginning of great projects in the new century.
Morley Builders prides itself on a diverse project mix, which was instrumental in weathering the economic downturn of the first decade of the 21st century. In 2013, the Morley family faced another greater challenge, the tragic loss of Mark Benjamin, President and CEO.
The integrity of the Morley Builders family has provided a solid foundation for continued success. Charles Muttillo, a 30-year veteran of the company at the time, took on the position of President. He guided the company through a buy-sell agreement and succession plan that allowed for a structured transition to 100% employee ownership. Throughout this transition, Morley’s banking and surety relationships remained solid, and the company maintained a bonding capacity in excess of $850 million.
Today, Ryan Hupf, a 26-year veteran of the firm, is President. Ryan succeeded Charles Muttillo, who remains with the company as Executive Chairman. Since joining Morley Builders after graduating from the University of Washington, Ryan has held various positions, from Project Engineer to Chief Operating Officer. His dedication to developing future leaders has solidified his reputation as a trusted figure in the industry.
“Ryan’s poise, leadership, and vision will drive Morley’s strategic plan as we continue our commitment to Building a Better Future,” said Charles Muttillo, Executive Chairman of Morley Builders. “He exemplifies our core values: Morley DRIVES – Delivering on commitments, Respect for all, Integrity, Value, Excellence, and Safety. With Ryan’s thoughtful leadership, a great new chapter begins.”
“Morley has built a strong legacy as a trusted, quality builder, and I am honored to lead the company into the future,” said Ryan. “I’ve had the privilege to work with and learn from some of the most talented people in our industry. With our incredible team, we will continue to build on our tradition of excellence while embracing our values to serve our clients, employees, and communities.”