EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MAJOR PROJECTS, Major Capital Projects

The Executive Director of Major Projects will be responsible for the execution of the design and construction of new buildings and major renovations of existing buildings on all of Boston University’s campuses. This position will be within Planning, Design and Construction (PDC), which serves the full range of Boston University’s real estate portfolio which includes nearly 15 million square feet in over 300 buildings. Space is an essential university asset, and the department acts as stewards of the university’s resources to enable emerging research directions, changes in educational delivery, and enhancements to student life and learning.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Major Projects, the Executive Director is responsible for design, construction, commissioning, and turnover of projects at Boston University (BU). This work will be in close collaboration with the appropriate BU business unit as well as our many service partners such as Facilities Management and Operations (FMO), Environment Health and Safety (EHS), Information Services and Technology (IS&T), Office of Risk Management, Office of Sustainability, Operations Fiscal Analysis & Analytics (OFFA), Office of Government and Community Affairs (OGCA), and more. Close coordination and collaboration with the Campus Planning team within PDC will be an essential responsibility as the programing, architect selection and concept design phase of some projects will be initiated by this group. Programming and design for projects for all units, schools, and colleges under the leadership of the Office of the Provost will also require close collaboration and coordination with their representative.

Creative problem solving, strategic thinking, effective communicating, ability to lead a team, and a strong client service mentality are essential qualities for success in this position. As the manager of projects from “cradle to grave” this position will be responsible for ensuring fidelity to project scope, budget, and schedule. As part of a small, passionate team the Executive Director will work closely with other members of the Major Projects team to share resources and best practices. Well qualified candidates will have expertise on matters of permitting and public process with the City of Boston, Town of Brookline, and the State of Massachusetts.

Required Skills

• Background from design and / or development industry including the fields of architecture, project development, or construction experience with a focus on higher education preferred.
• Ability to negotiate and balance the expectations and priorities of demanding constituencies while keeping the University's priorities in view.
• Ability to communicate verbally, graphically and in writing, with members of the university community to understand and discuss specific teaching, research, and clinical programs.
• Ability to obtain appropriate results with limited direction, shows initiative, and ability to manage multiple relationships working effectively in a team environment.
• Working knowledge of Massachusetts building code, life safety and accessibility regulations as they relate to design and construction.
• Proficiency with Bluebeam, spreadsheets (excel), and analytic tools (GIS / PowerBI). Extensive computer experience in word processing software and comfort navigating database systems is required.
• Creativity, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills are required.

The Planning Design and Construction team (PDC) within Campus Planning and Operations (CPO) is responsible for the planning, design, permitting and construction of all levels of projects on campus. This position will be a member of the Major Projects team who are responsible for the larger projects that are typically new construction or major building renovations.

Required Experience

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

The Planning Design and Construction team (PDC) within Campus Planning and Operations (CPO) is responsible for the planning, design, permitting and construction of all levels of projects on campus. This position will be a member of the Major Projects team who are responsible for the larger projects that are typically new construction or major building renovations.