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Annalisa Xioutas: Winner – Women Leader in Design-Build Construction & Project Excellence | International Women Awards 2026

  • Writer: Great Companies
    Great Companies
  • May 5
  • 3 min read

The 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are transforming industries through resilience, innovation, and execution excellence.


Among this year’s distinguished winners is Annalisa Xioutas, Founder & CEO of FFI Contracting Services, honored as Winner – Women Leader in Design-Build Construction & Project Excellence.


Based in Fort Myers, USA, Annalisa has built a nationally recognized construction company known for its client-centric approach, operational excellence, and ability to deliver complex projects with precision.


Company Overview

Founder: Annalisa Xioutas

Business: FFI Contracting Services

Location: Fort Myers, USA

Founded: 1999 (Acquired & scaled in 2008)

Category: Design-Build Construction & Project Excellence

Industry: Construction, Remodeling & Project Management

Website: ffi1.com


From Local Operations to National Impact

FFI Contracting Services is a full-service design-build construction firm delivering residential and commercial projects with a focus on quality, efficiency, and client experience.

The company provides:

  • Residential and commercial remodeling

  • New construction and design consulting

  • Construction management and project execution

  • Restoration and rehabilitation services

  • Custom design and surface innovation


Over the years, FFI has evolved from a small regional operation into a nationwide single-source solution, handling thousands of projects across diverse markets.


A Client-Centric, Technology-Driven Approach

What sets FFI apart is its ability to combine high-touch service with operational efficiency and technology integration.

Key differentiators include:

  • Transparent and consistent communication throughout projects

  • Strong focus on client experience and attention to detail

  • Use of technology to streamline workflows and project tracking

  • Continuous learning and adoption of latest construction innovations


The company’s philosophy is clear:👉 Excellence is achieved when vision, execution, and communication align seamlessly


A Journey of Reinvention and Strategic Growth

Annalisa’s journey reflects resilience and adaptability.

After acquiring the business in 2008, she:

  • Scaled operations from foreclosure clean-ups to nationwide default services

  • Managed large-scale property portfolios and rehabilitation projects

  • Successfully pivoted the business post-real estate crisis into a retail-style construction firm


This ability to pivot and reinvent has been a defining factor in FFI’s long-term success.


Overcoming Market Volatility and Business Risks

The journey was not without significant challenges:

  • Navigating fluctuating construction markets and economic cycles

  • Managing operational strain during high-demand periods (e.g., post-hurricane recovery)

  • Facing a major business setback when a key client was lost, requiring a rapid 90-day restructuring

  • Overcoming gender bias in a traditionally male-dominated industry


Through strategic decisions and resilience, Annalisa transformed these challenges into turning points for growth and stability.


Leadership Built on Precision, Accountability, and Vision

Annalisa’s leadership philosophy is grounded in:

  • Clear vision combined with actionable execution

  • High standards of accountability and quality control

  • Building strong, capable teams

  • Delivering results that consistently exceed expectations


She believes:👉 Success comes when strategic clarity meets disciplined execution


Advice for Women Entrepreneurs

Annalisa shares powerful and practical guidance:

“Be clear in your vision, execute with discipline, and don’t hesitate to pivot when needed. Trust your instincts and act when the signs are clear.”

She emphasizes:

  • Making tough decisions without delay

  • Learning from both successes and failures

  • Asking questions and staying curious

  • Aligning actions with long-term goals


The Future

FFI Contracting Services is focused on:

  • Expanding its footprint in residential and commercial construction

  • Strengthening its design-build capabilities

  • Leveraging technology for greater efficiency and transparency

  • Continuing to deliver high-quality, client-focused construction solutions

The vision is to remain a leader in construction by combining innovation, craftsmanship, and exceptional service.


Official Recognition

Annalisa Xioutas has been honored as the Winner – Women Leader in Design-Build Construction & Project Excellence at the 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies, recognizing her contribution to construction innovation, business resilience, and execution excellence.



About the Awards

The International Women Awards by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are driving innovation, impact, and excellence across industries worldwide.


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