Area Manager, FAS Libraries Facilities

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Area Manager is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day management of building operations across the FAS and Harvard Library portfolios. This role oversees facility operations, building systems, maintenance, security, compliance, and capital planning for a complex portfolio of academic and research libraries. The position ensures reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of facilities while supporting long-term asset preservation, sustainability goals, and programmatic needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 10+ years of progressive facilities management experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience (12+ years).
• Demonstrated experience managing complex building portfolios, systems, and budgets.
• Strong analytical, operational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven leadership and staff management experience.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in higher education, research, or cultural institution environments preferred.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage senior leadership, faculty, and diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated skills in negotiation, collaboration, and consensus-building.
• Professional certifications (e.g., CFM) and/or BA/BS degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct all aspects of facilities operations, including building systems, maintenance, custodial services, security, and support services across ~1M SF of library space.
• Manage a combined operating and capital budget of ~$11M across FAS and Harvard Library locations.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality, consistent building services aligned with institutional standards and user needs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all facilities-related issues, including emergencies, major repairs, and operational disruptions.
• Identify cost efficiencies and support cost-reduction initiatives without compromising service quality.
• Lead, supervise, and develop a team of facilities staff, including building managers, administrative staff, security personnel, and third-party contractors.
• Provide performance management, coaching, and operational direction to ensure accountability and service excellence.
• Oversee operation and monitor performance of critical building systems, including complex HVAC, electrical, life safety, and security systems.
• Establish and manage preventive maintenance programs, work order processes, and service level expectations.
• Monitor system performance through CMMS and building automation systems to ensure reliability and efficiency.
• Develop and implement long-range capital and lifecycle plans for building systems and infrastructure.
• Support planning and execution of renovations and capital projects in coordination with OPRP and Library leadership.
• Evaluate deferred maintenance and prioritize investments based on risk, condition, and program needs.
• Oversee comprehensive security program across all library locations.
• Partner with Harvard University Police Department and external agencies on security planning and incident response.
• Lead responses to emergencies, incidents, and business continuity events.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and university policies (life safety, fire protection, environmental health, etc.).
• Coordinate inspections, audits, and corrective actions.
• Maintain and strengthen safety programs and protocols across the portfolio.
• Collaborate with library leadership, faculty, and administrative stakeholders to align facilities operations with programmatic needs.
• Serve on senior administrative and cross-functional teams supporting strategic initiatives.
• Maintain strong working relationships with Harvard Library leadership (dotted-line reporting structure).
• Partner with OPRP and the Harvard University Office for Sustainability to advance energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction goals and, implement best practices in sustainable operations and maintenance.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior