Executive Director of Facilities Management

University Of Lynchburg•Lynchburg, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Lynchburg, a private, regional university, is seeking applicants for a full-time Executive Director of Facilities Management position in the Operations Department. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operational management, and physical development of the University's campus environment. The position requires a visionary, hands-on leader who can foster innovation, ensure the safety and functionality of the physical plant, manage multi-million dollar capital projects, and advance the university's mission. The department encompasses Environmental Services & Grounds, Maintenance, Capital Projects, and Warehouse & Logistics.

Requirements

Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in facilities management or physical plant operations, with demonstrated success in team leadership, capital project management, and strategic planning.
Proven experience in complex budget management, vendor contract negotiation, and resource allocation.
Proficiency in utilizing Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to drive operational efficiency.
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse workforce including tradespeople, project managers, and administrative staff.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical and construction details clearly to non-technical audiences, including executive leadership and external stakeholders.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to assess emergency situations, identify infrastructure challenges, and implement cost-effective solutions.
Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships across all levels of the university.
Flexibility to pivot and direct emergency responses 24/7 in a dynamic higher education environment.
The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, safely climb ladders, navigate confined spaces, and endure exposure to varying temperatures and extreme weather conditions during site inspections and emergencies.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Business Administration, or a closely related field.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a senior administrative facilities role within a university, healthcare system, or similar large-scale institutional environment.
Professional certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Certified Educational Facilities Professional (CEFP), or a Professional Engineer (P.E.) license.
Completion of OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour safety training.
Familiarity with current trends, sustainability challenges, and technological operations (e.g., HVAC, switchgear, plumbing systems) within higher education.
Direct experience with specific operational software platforms, including Asset Essentials and StarRez.
Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive strategic plans for campus infrastructure and maintenance that align with the university’s goals and the new presidential administration's priorities.
Provide executive leadership to the Facilities Management team, directly supervise and mentor direct reports, and foster an inclusive, equitable work environment for a diverse workforce.
Ensure strict campus compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA, EPA, ADA accessibility standards, and fire/life safety codes.
Formulate and implement policies for preventative maintenance, emergency response, and severe weather protocols.
Manage complex departmental budgets, including the negotiation and oversight of external vendor contracts, resource allocation, and financial forecasting.
Oversee the creation of sustainable campus initiatives—prioritizing energy management, carbon footprint reduction, and waste diversion—alongside major capital renovations and space management solutions.
Direct comprehensive logistical operations, including the procurement and maintenance of the university vehicle fleet, execution of annual student move-in/move-out processes, and coordination of campus-wide faculty and staff office relocations.
Serve as the primary liaison between Facilities Management and other university divisions, fostering partnerships to execute seamless campus events and transitions.
Utilize software tools and data analytics to evaluate work order efficiency, track preventative maintenance, and inform capital spending decisions.
Represent the university in local community relations, coordinating with city management and public works regarding zoning, comprehensive city plans, and major campus disruptions.