Executive Director of Space Planning and Design

• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Bargaining Unit:
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $195,000 to $215,000

Position Summary

Columbia Engineering stands as a global leader in engineering education, research, and impact. Situated in the heart of New York City, the school continues to push the boundaries of knowledge and address humanity's most critical challenges. As we grow and expand our academic and research mission, we are seeking a strategic leader who will play a key role in shaping the school's evolving spatial design and expanding footprint, ensuring that our facilities align with our growth projections and vision for creating an integrated ecosystem that transforms engineering-led research.

Reporting to the Vice Dean of Infrastructure and Innovation, the Executive Director of Space Planning and Design will lead and develop space planning and optimization strategies to meet the demands of the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science's (SEAS) operational and functional needs. This role supports the planning, design, and efficient use of SEAS physical spaces across the University's multiple campuses and leased properties, currently approximately 600,000 GSF. A key responsibility will include contributing to the design of the new SEAS research building at the Manhattanville campus as part of the school's continued expansion.

The Executive Director will play a crucial role in aligning space management with SEAS's mission of education, research, and innovation. This role involves working closely with departmental and school leadership to assess space needs and provide strategic recommendations for space utilization and development. The Executive Director will act as a liaison between SEAS, University Facilities, and other central partners, managing conceptual space planning, test fit diagrams, and early design phases. The incumbent will incorporate sustainable practices into space planning and coordinate the integration of technology into space designs for optimization

Responsibilities

Planning and Design (55%):

• Lead space programming and design initiatives, collaborating with internal stakeholders and University Facilities on capital planning. Develop test fit diagrams, schematic space plans, and conduct feasibility studies and preliminary designs in partnership with University Facilities and vendors.
• 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. Organize and schedule meetings as required.
• 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.

Budgeting and Financial Oversight (10%):

• 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. Evaluate cost-saving opportunities through design efficiencies, space optimization, and vendor negotiations.
• Provide regular financial reports and updates to stakeholders.

System Management (10%):

• Oversee the management of space inventory software and processes, maintaining accurate and current floor plans and occupancy data.

Analytics (10%):

• Provide analytical support for space planning and utilization, preparing clear, concise reports and presentations for leadership based on data and trends.

Process Improvement, Sustainability, and Innovation (10%):

• Develop and refine processes to enhance space management efficiency, ensuring compliance with University policies. Seek opportunities to streamline administrative operations and improve organizational practices.
• 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.

Other Related Duties (5%):

• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned/requested.

Minimum Qualifications

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  Bachelor's degree in architecture, facilities management, urban planning, or a related field is required.

  
  
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  A minimum of 8 years related experience is required.

  
  
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  Proven experience in space planning and capital project management, with strong knowledge of programming and design principles.

  
  
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  Proficiency in architecture, construction management, or facilities management, with the ability to interpret floor plans, schematics, and drawings.

  
  
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  Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and compelling reports and presentations.

  
  
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  Strong interpersonal skills and political acumen, with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.

  
  
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  Proven leadership abilities with experience in resolving complex planning issues and conducting sensitive negotiations.

  
  
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  Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple activities effectively under pressure.

  
  
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  Ability to walk long distances.

  
  
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  Some travel as it relates to new Principal Investigator (PI) hires and space planning.

  
  

Preferred Qualifications

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  Experience in project construction administration, architecture, or facilities management.

  
  
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  Prior experience in a higher education setting.

  
  
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  Prior experience in a research or laboratory environment.

  
  
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  Master's degree in architecture, facilities management, planning, design, or a related field.

  
  

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.