Executive Director of Space Planning and Design

$195,000 - $215,000/Yr

Columbia University - New York, NY

Full-time - Executive

New York, NY

Educational Services

About the position

The Executive Director of Space Planning and Design at Columbia University will lead the strategic development and optimization of space planning initiatives for the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS). This role is pivotal in ensuring that the school's physical spaces align with its educational and research missions, particularly as it expands its footprint and integrates sustainable practices into its design. The Executive Director will collaborate with various stakeholders to assess space needs, manage multiple projects, and contribute to the design of new facilities, including a new research building at the Manhattanville campus.

Responsibilities

• Lead space programming and design initiatives, collaborating with internal stakeholders and University Facilities on capital planning.
• Oversee the planning, design, and efficient use of SEAS physical spaces, ensuring alignment with branding, functionality, sustainability, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and present detailed presentations and approval documents to school stakeholders and leadership, ensuring alignment with SEAS's strategic goals and functional needs.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure space standards are maintained and make data-driven recommendations to improve space allocation for departments and teams.
• Lead design initiatives for new construction, renovation, or reconfiguration projects, ensuring all projects comply with building codes, ADA requirements, health and safety regulations, and environmental standards.
• Oversee multiple concurrent space planning and design projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
• Develop and manage multi-million dollar budgets related to space planning, renovations, and capital projects.
• Work with the Senior Vice Dean and CFAO to maintain the School’s capital budget, prepare variance analysis for projects, and conduct cash modeling for future projects.
• Ensure cost-effective design solutions that balance aesthetics and functionality within established financial constraints.
• Provide regular financial reports and updates to stakeholders.
• Oversee the management of space inventory software and processes, maintaining accurate and current floor plans and occupancy data.
• Provide analytical support for space planning and utilization, preparing clear, concise reports and presentations for leadership based on data and trends.
• Develop and refine processes to enhance space management efficiency, ensuring compliance with University policies.
• Incorporate environmentally sustainable practices into space planning and design, ensuring seamless integration of technology infrastructure into space designs, considering IT, AV, and smart-building technologies.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned/requested.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, facilities management, urban planning, or a related field is required.
• A minimum of 8 years related experience is required.
• Proven experience in space planning and capital project management, with strong knowledge of programming and design principles.
• Proficiency in architecture, construction management, or facilities management, with the ability to interpret floor plans, schematics, and drawings.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and compelling reports and presentations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and political acumen, with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proven leadership abilities with experience in resolving complex planning issues and conducting sensitive negotiations.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple activities effectively under pressure.
• Ability to walk long distances.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in project construction administration, architecture, or facilities management.
• Prior experience in a higher education setting.
• Prior experience in a research or laboratory environment.
• Master’s degree in architecture, facilities management, planning, design, or a related field.

Benefits

• Open salary range based on qualifications and experience.
• Regular full-time position with a standard work schedule of 35 hours per week.