Director, Building Planning and Operations

Harvard UniversityCambridge, MA
Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for managing the building operation of the five-building HKS complex and leased space, as required. Duties including directing a wide range of support functions and all activities relating to building operations, building systems, safety maintenance and services, building renovations, space planning and lease management.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree plus 8+ years of progressive work experience managing facilities and building operations OR, in lieu of a degree, at least 10 years of progressive work experience managing various building operations.
  • Management experience is required.
  • in order for your application to be considered complete, you must submit a COVER LETTER and RESUME.

Nice To Haves

  • Certification(s) such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facilities Management Professional (FMP), or equivalent a plus.
  • Experience with operations management of multiple facilities, structures, and buildings within higher education environment preferred.
  • Experience working within a higher education, institutional, or similarly complex environment.
  • Direct experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), such as ServiceNow, and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software platforms.
  • Demonstrated success managing building systems upgrades, renovations, or minor capital projects.
  • Knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems, with hands-on experience leading preventive maintenance programs, sustainability, energy efficiency, and green building practices; LEED accreditation is a plus.
  • Familiarity with regulatory standards and compliance (OSHA, ADA, local building codes).
  • Must be able to grasp and communicate complex ideas clearly and think creatively.
  • Experience in the development of analytical and planning-related communication materials.
  • Excellent communication skills; ability to assess needs, set priorities, and deal with stressful situations.
  • Experience in the management of physical facilities.
  • As a facilities management professional able to demonstrate skills in customer service to support, respond to, and coordinate with students, faculty, and staff.
  • Proven ability to analyze and resolve large-scale facility, logistical, and organizational issues.
  • Diplomacy, negotiation, and consensus-building skills.
  • Able to develop and maintain relationships and partnerships with customers, stakeholders, peers, business partners, and direct reports.
  • Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced, demanding work environment; Computer proficiency with MS Office, Workorder System, Building Automation Systems (BAS)
  • CAD experience preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Manages and oversees all aspects of the building planning and operations to ensure that the highest quality service is provided in support of the teaching and research in the facilities.
  • Establishes and oversees processes needed for maintenance, emergency repairs, safety program, and renovations.
  • Plan, prioritize and review the work of staff and contractors responsible for mechanical and electrical equipment, lighting, plumbing, masonry, utilities, and grounds. Manages the process of furnishing and equipment selection, purchasing, and installation
  • Develop goals, objectives and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the maintenance of HKS’s infrastructure and building systems; make recommendations for improvements and monitor work activities to ensure compliance with industry standards
  • Partners closely with the University’s department of Environmental Health & Safety to fully leverage the University’s Designated Safety Officer model, as well as the Construction Renovation Officer model, to ensure compliance with all environmental health and safety regulations and standards.
  • Develops, manages, and monitors facilities operations budget. Work closely with direct reports to ensure budgets are on target and funds are properly allocated across the portfolio.
  • Manages small/medium (100K -1M) expense and capital projects including renovations from concept through close-out. Responsible for all phases (planning, scheduling and managing) of the design, construction and occupancy process for a construction or refurbishment project as assigned for both building infrastructure and campus spaces
  • Develops long-range maintenance and life-cycle costing plans for building systems.
  • Partner with Chief of Campus Operations for space planning, feasibility assessment, space studies. Responsible for the maintaining and applying “standards” for office, classroom, and administrative space including furniture, paint color, and flooring, standards for the site and implement.
  • Support business continuity by proactively planning for and responding to localized emergencies and catastrophic events (e.g. Power loss, leaks, floods, hurricanes, ice storms, tornados, earthquakes, etc.). Partner with Environmental Health & Safety to leverage University-wide emergency management, response, and planning tools, to develop locally applicable plans, and ensure alignment with HKS’ Local Emergency Management Team (LEMT).
  • Work with Sr. Sustainability Manager on Greenhouse Gas Reduction initiatives and utility needs.
  • Oversee and monitor the performance of inspections for facilities maintenance and ensure adherence and compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. Leverage Environmental Health & Safety’s (EHS) University-wide tools to fulfill these responsibilities.
  • This position is expected to be reachable 24 hours/7 Days per week to assist in person or remotely with campus and facilities-related emergency activities as necessary.
  • Act as the CPO representative and liaison to HKS community, University departments (Campus Services, Office of the General Counsel, etc.), city and state agencies.
  • Is a member of HKS and University related committees and teams, such as University Facilities Safety Team, and HKS Local Emergency Management Team, as required.
  • Execute special projects as assigned by senior leadership

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
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