Zeev Braude leads SiteAware as its CEO and co-founder, revolutionizing the construction industry in the Middle East and beyond. Based in Israel, Braude drives a company that uses AI and digital tools to cut errors on building sites. His work blends technology with real-world needs, helping projects finish on time and within budget. With over 30 years in tech, Braude turns ideas into successful businesses. He focuses on emerging technologies that solve big problems, earning recognition as a thought leader in outlets like Forbes and The Wall Street Journal.
Braude grew up in Israel, where a passion for technology took root early. He pursued computer engineering at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, a top engineering school. There, he earned his BSc, building a strong foundation in software and systems. The Technion’s rigorous programme shaped his problem-solving skills. Braude often credits this education for his ability to tackle complex challenges. From student projects to real-world applications, he learnt to innovate under pressure.
Career Beginnings
Braude kicked off his professional journey in 1993 as a founding member of MIND CTI. The company developed customer-care products for large service providers. He contributed to its growth, gaining hands-on experience in software for telecoms. This role taught him about scaling tech solutions. After MIND CTI, Braude explored other ventures, honing his entrepreneurial spirit. He co-founded and led Ryz Media as CEO, focusing on media tech. These early steps built his reputation as a builder of companies. Braude always sought roles where technology could make a real difference, from improving customer service to enhancing media delivery.
Leadership at GreenRoad and Other Ventures
Braude took the helm as President and CEO of GreenRoad Technologies, a firm specializing in fleet safety and driver behavior analytics. Under his guidance, GreenRoad expanded its reach, using data to make roads safer. He led the company through growth phases, introducing innovative tools that reduced accidents for commercial fleets. Braude’s time there showcased his knack for turning data into actionable insights. Before that, he worked with TIPA, a compostable packaging company, and White Raven, adding to his diverse portfolio. These experiences sharpened his leadership style—hands-on, visionary, and focused on team success. Braude believes in empowering people to drive change, a philosophy he carries forward.
Founding SiteAware
In 2015, Braude co-founded SiteAware with Ori Afek, spotting a gap in construction quality control. Traditional methods often led to costly errors and delays. SiteAware changes that by using AI, drones, and cameras to create digital twins of sites. These models verify every element against plans in real time. Braude serves as CEO, steering the company from its Tel Aviv base to a Houston office. He raised $10 million in 2020 and $15 million in 2022, attracting investors like Axon Ventures and Vertex Ventures. SiteAware now employs about 50 people, with Braude at the center, pushing for tech that predicts and prevents issues. His passion shines through: “We digitize quality assurance to bring predictability to construction,” he says.
Notable Projects and Achievements
SiteAware boasts impressive milestones under Braude’s watch. The company has completed over 500 projects, flagged 150,000 observations, and verified 5,000 floors. One standout project is the 960 West 7th in Los Angeles, a 57-story residential tower with 785 units. Developer Brookfield Properties and contractor Webcor used SiteAware’s platform to transform quality control. The tool ensured accurate installations, keeping the massive build on track. Braude highlights how it allowed teams to “do it right the first time.”
Another key achievement comes from analyzing $10 billion in U.S. commercial projects. SiteAware developed a scoring system for fieldwork performance, measuring metrics like first-time quality and mitigation rates. For instance, commercial projects scored around 86%, revealing risks in areas like multifamily builds at 11.3%. Clients like Hines praise the platform: “It improves our assurance for on-time, on-budget delivery,” says CEO Mark Cover. ANDRES Construction Services reports life-changing efficiency, with Director John Andres noting they “do more work with the same people.” Modern Constructors uses it to maintain critical paths, as Senior Superintendent Dusty Brimberry explains. These cases show Braude’s impact—reducing rework by up to 20% and accelerating schedules.
SiteAware’s growth includes partnerships with market leaders, serving over 20 projects worth $5 billion by 2020. Braude’s leadership earned features in TechCrunch and Inc., solidifying his role in construction tech.
Vision and Impact in the Middle East
Braude envisions a construction industry as precise as manufacturing. In the Middle East, where rapid urbanization demands efficiency, SiteAware fits perfectly. From Israeli high-rises to regional expansions, his tech cuts waste and boosts safety. Braude advocates for AI to empower workers, not replace them. He speaks at conferences, sharing how data breaks silos and fosters collaboration. His influence extends beyond business; he mentors young entrepreneurs, drawing from his Technion days. Braude balances work with family life in Israel, enjoying hikes and tech reads. This human side fuels his drive—he builds companies that improve lives.
Zeev Braude exemplifies innovation in action. From his Technion roots to leading SiteAware, he transforms challenges into opportunities. His journey through MIND CTI, GreenRoad, and now AI-driven construction shows a relentless pursuit of better ways. Notable projects like 960 West 7th prove his methods work, saving millions and preventing errors. As CEO, Braude inspires teams to build smarter. In a fast-changing Middle East, he leads the charge toward a tech-savvy future. With simple yet powerful ideas, Braude proves one person’s vision can reshape an industry.
