Ellen Cottrill

Ellen Cottrill is a co-owner of Avant Construction Group, a commercial construction company based in Jacksonville, Florida, and also manages a property acquisition and rental management company with her husband. With extensive experience in marketing, Ellen oversees the branding and promotional strategies for both businesses.

Originally from Philadelphia, Ellen relocated to Jacksonville in 1999. With a background in art and communications, Ellen has served in several different capacities through the years, in addition to working with the construction company, including restaurant owner, gallery director of a major Jacksonville gallery, and head of communications for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville. In every role she has worked to foster connections between artists and the community.

Ellen earned her master’s degree in communication and non-profit management from the University of North Florida at the age of 55, showcasing her lifelong commitment to learning and professional development. Her leadership in both the construction and arts industries reflects her ability to bridge creativity with business, while her marketing expertise ensures the continued success of the companies she leads.

Ellen lives in Jacksonville with her husband, Alan, where they enjoy life with their blended family of six adult children and ten grandchildren. Deeply committed to community service, Ellen serves on the board of Voices of Children of Northeast Florida, and Scenic Jacksonville, and is actively involved with other local organizations such as the Jewish Federation of Northeast Florida.