Senior Director of Facility Management

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American His•Detroit, MI

10d

About The Position

The Senior Director of Facility Management provides strategic leadership and oversight for all aspects of facility management, security, and operational excellence. This role ensures the museum’s physical environment supports its mission and enhances visitor experience through proactive planning, sustainability initiatives, and rigorous compliance with safety standards. The Senior Director will lead a high-performing team, manage multimillion-dollar budgets, and drive continuous improvement in building operations, leveraging technology and best practices to optimize efficiency and mitigate risk. This position requires exceptional leadership, integrity, and the ability to collaborate across departments while maintaining confidentiality and high ethical standards. Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are essential.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree; master’s degree preferred with 6-8 years Facility Management Experience (Museum Experience Preferred)
Must possess a keen eye for important or timely details and connections in a fast-paced work environment; exhibit a high level of organization, responsiveness, accuracy, and attention to detail
Must be able to prioritize, anticipate needs, and confidently/proactively address issues/opportunities; ability to work under pressure, and provide quick turnarounds
Must exercise good judgment and maintain a confident, professional demeanor and excellent rapport when interacting with all levels of staff and external contacts.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
Must be able to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
Ability to work independently with limited supervision and instruction at times; demonstrate sound decision-making skills and resourcefulness.
Strong computer skills with an emphasis on Microsoft Office programs and systems
Astute at multi-tasking, managing multiple projects at one time
Majority of the requirements of the position can be performed in normal office conditions, but must be able to work in both interior and exterior temperatures and conditions
Comfortable walking/standing for extended periods of time
Must be able to balance, bend, climb, crouch, reach, stand, sit and twist
Must have the finger dexterity to operate mechanical and office equipment as well as power tools as necessary. Must be able to lift/move up to 20 lbs.
Must exhibit mobility in order to monitor and maintain systems organization wide and to meet the daily demands of the position
Strategic Thinking
Leadership and Team Development
Risk Management and Compliance
Financial Acumen
Sustainability Expertise
Tech Savy

Nice To Haves

Certified Facility Manager (CFM)
OSHA Safety Certification
LEED Accreditation

Responsibilities

Maintains building security, serves as building coordinator and primary contact for facilities issues.
Develops operating policies and procedures and directs the work operations including building maintenance
Secures and protects the museum’s assets, including facilities and equipment
Implement general policies established by executive leadership team; directs their administration and execution
Coordinates development of operating and capital budgets according to the budget calendar; monitors monthly and other financial statements for the museum; takes effective corrective action as required.
Provides advice and recommendations to the Executive VP and COO about construction, alterations, maintenance, materials, supplies, equipment and services not provided in approved plans and/or budgets
Consistently ensures that the museum is operated in accordance with all applicable local, state and federal laws.
Monitor and maintain museum’s physical plant including HVAC, plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems
Provide facility maintenance and repair on both an as needed and regularly scheduled basis throughout the Museum owned facilities by conducting regular inspections of buildings and grounds making recommendations for improvements and repairs
Contributes to the leadership and overall effectiveness of the museum by attending all management meetings, participating in discussions, and supporting the museum’s decision-making process.
Establishes and monitors annual goals and budgets for the department
Maintains as-built plans for facility and consults with necessary contractors to plan for future facilities improvements inside and outside the museum; overseeing work and managing costs and time.
Reports employee/staff infractions to the Executive VP and COO for necessary action
Works closely with multiple departments to determine demands of new exhibitions, programming and special events, including but not limited to effective lighting, plumbing, electrical, audio-visual needs, etc., collaborating to design practical solutions to meet the requirements within time and budget
Management of the museum’s MSDS Information
Development and manage the Museum’s Safety Committee and assist in the updating, testing and monitoring of the museum’s emergency procedures. Works in tandem with Human Resources regarding OSHA compliance and reporting.
Establish and maintain good working relationships with vendors, outside contractors, firms and individuals providing services to the museum, such as police, fire, and other governmental agencies
Maintain a valid driver’s license that remains in good standing.
Develop and implement long-term strategic plans in concert with Executive VP and COO for building operations, sustainability, and energy efficiency.
Lead risk management initiatives in collaboration with Manager Security Services, including emergency preparedness and compliance with OSHA, ADA, and other regulatory standards.
Establish and monitor KPIs for building operations and report performance to executive leadership.
Drive innovation through the adoption of smart building technologies and continuous improvement practices.
Oversee vendor contract negotiations and ensure cost optimization across all operational areas.
Manages engineering, security divisions and janitorial contract services staff
Ensures proper cleanliness and sanitation of all museum facilities and environments
Coordinates all ordering and usage of janitorial supplies and chemical
Handles emergencies such as fires, accidents and breaches of security or house rules promptly and in person
Emphasizes prevention through training, inspection and preventive enforcement