Palacio Collaborative Announces 2026 Leadership Appointments

Left to right: Angela Zelaya, Andrea Newman, and Stacey White

ATLANTA, GA — February 11, 2026 - Palacio Collaborative announced the appointment of three rising leaders whose contributions have supported the company’s growth and operational excellence: Angela Zelaya to Vice President of Operations; Andrea Newman, CPSM, to Vice President of Marketing & Business Development; and Stacey White to Director of Cost Management Operations. 

The promotions recognize the roles each leader has played in guiding Palacio Collaborative through a period of sustained growth, during which the firm’s staff nearly tripled in size. Both Newman and Zelaya built their departments from the ground up, developing structures and teams to align with the firm’s continued growth strategy. Together with White, they provide strategic guidance to firm President Michael D. Palacio, while directing expanding teams across marketing, operations, and cost management.

“They each have demonstrated a consistent commitment to strengthening our firm and supporting our clients,” said Palacio. “Andrea and Angela have been instrumental in helping us scale strategically over the past six years, while Stacey’s diverse construction experience has brought valuable perspective to our cost management operations.”

Angela Zelaya has spent six years shaping Palacio Collaborative’s operational foundation, overseeing functions that include human resources, finance, and contracting. As Vice President of Operations, she leads efforts to strengthen internal systems and build a high-performing operations team focused on recruiting, employee engagement, and organizational development. Her work has supported the firm’s ability to scale while maintaining efficiency, accountability, and a strong internal culture.

“This company has always cared deeply about its people,” said Zelaya. “My goal is to keep building systems and teams that support growth while protecting the culture that makes Palacio who we are.”

Andrea Newman joined Palacio Collaborative six years ago, bringing extensive marketing experience with a global architectural firm. She has been instrumental in establishing Palacio’s brand identity, business development strategy, and client service ethos. In her new role as Vice President of Marketing & Business Development, she continues to guide the firm’s marketing operations and growth initiatives while ensuring the company remains aligned with industry trends, and evolving client expectations. Her efforts have helped position Palacio as a trusted cost management partner across multiple markets.

“I’m proud of what we’ve built and excited about where we’re going,” said Newman. “Our focus has always been on meaningful relationships, smart strategy, and staying curious about what’s next for our clients and our industry.”

Stacey White joined Palacio Collaborative two years ago with more than a decade in construction, including experience with the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC). As Director of Cost Management Operations, he focuses on project delivery excellence and the advancement of Palacio’s cost management services. He leads estimating teams responsible for delivering consistent, high-quality consulting and is actively supporting the firm’s expansion into markets that align with Palacio’s long-term strategic goals.

“My priority is making sure our teams have what they need to deliver great work every day,” said White. “As we grow, staying grounded in quality and accountability is what will keep our clients confident in the results.”

“These promotions reflect both their individual achievements and the future of this firm,” Palacio said. “Angela, Andrea, and Stacey lead with integrity, humility, and a real commitment to others. As Palacio continues to grow, their leadership ensures we stay focused on our people, our clients, and doing the work the right way.”

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About Palacio Collaborative

Palacio Collaborative is a minority-owned full-service construction cost estimating firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA with offices in NC, SC, TX, and LA. Strategically located, we provide quality estimating nationwide in a variety of markets. Our primary services include conceptual cost modeling, budget verification, cost management, and value management. Through innovative tools and proactive collaboration, our value-added services assist to develop accurate project budgets, manage cost, preserve the integrity of the design, and deliver a project with the highest quality and value.