Director, Design & Project Development

NBCUniversal•Universal City, CA

2h•Onsite

About The Position

NBCUniversal is seeking a Director of Design & Project Development to join its West Coast Facilities – Studio Design & Construction team. This role is accountable for leading the design and development of complex projects from early concept through construction completion. The Director will lead front-end project development, partnering with business units, Studio Operations leadership, Finance, and Facilities stakeholders to translate operational needs into well-defined projects with clear scope, cost, schedule, and risk parameters. The ideal candidate is a design-minded strategist, a proven leader known to challenge the status quo, an effective executer, and communicates with ease.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
10+ years of experience in master site planning, conceptual design and general space planning, project programming, technical project development, and construction management.
10+ years of experience coordinating with civil, structural, and MEP building engineers, managing overall project delivery, and providing onsite construction management

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated ability to personally lead complex projects while providing strategic influence across a broader portfolio.
Proven executive-level communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence diverse stakeholders and present clearly to senior leadership.
Excellent planning and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask effectively while overseeing a large and complex portfolio of projects and managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Working knowledge of existing City and County of Los Angeles Building Codes, including Fire, CalGreen, and Accessibility codes/initiatives.
Strong contracting experience and ability to identify and negotiate complex terms and language in design, engineering, and construction contracts.
Highly effective in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Smartsheet.
Capable of communicating effectively through compelling PPT presentations, design diagrams, and leading the development of photorealistic renderings.
Licensure from the California Architects Board (CAB).

Responsibilities

Own front-end project development activities, including feasibility analysis, test fits, scope definition, and early cost and schedule modeling to ensure projects are positioned for successful execution.
Select, direct, and manage consultant teams across development and delivery phases, ensuring design intent, scope clarity, and constructability support successful execution.
Serve as the designated Project Manager for assigned projects, maintaining end-to-end accountability from early programming and development through construction, commissioning, closeout, and handover.
Develop and manage project budgets and schedules across all phases, including critical path activities, sequencing, and recovery strategies as required.
Lead and proactively manage regulatory approvals and permitting efforts from early planning through construction completion.
In compliance with NBCU Sourcing and other corporate policies, lead contracting, buyout, and procurement efforts, exercising sound judgment around delivery strategies and risk management.