Vice President, Facilities Planning and Management

Job Description - Vice President, Facilities Planning and Management (OFF00000190) Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. About SMU SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high‑achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest‑growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact. SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry. About the Position This role is an on‑campus, in‑person position. The VP of Facilities Planning and Management is a high impact leadership role reporting directly to the Senior Vice President of Business and Finance. The role is responsible for the supervision, management, and oversight of campus master planning, architectural and interior design, capital construction and renovations, facilities services (custodial, grounds, and trades), energy management, real estate management, space planning and sustainability. With a footprint of over 150 buildings across 657 acres, the role will lead a team of 114 full‑time staff, and manage a $21M operating budget. The role also provides administrative supervision for various contracts, vendors, and 3rd party service providers. The VP will direct and lead a professional team of project managers and related staff through every phase of major renovations and new‑capital construction, from initial design and studies to final administration. The role will manage all residential and commercial real estate holdings owned by SMU. This includes overseeing leasing operations, tenant relationships, and capital renovations while ensuring leased spaces generate adequate returns. Additionally, the position is responsible for establishing and adhering to project budgets and the preparation of associated contracts, while maintaining direct accountability for the department’s $21M annual operating budget. The VP will manage and oversee the university’s master planning initiatives and ensure all aspects of facilities and grounds improvements comply and adhere to the university’s master plan. The development and management of the university’s sustainability program, including the campus green building program, Climate Action Plan, and other initiatives related to sustainability efforts across campus will also be a key function for this position. Essential Functions Oversee Project Managers through oversight of construction projects from inception stage through constructions, close‑out and warranty period. Participate in the development of project plans, schedules, contract/agreements, and budgets and administer construction activities for major renovation and new construction work. Manage facilities services to include grounds, custodial and trades ensuring processes are well defined, service levels are monitored and managed, and work is conducted with a high level of customer service. Ensure 3rd party providers meet contractual requirements and properly maintain all of the campus physical assets. Work with 3rd party and other SMU staff to effectively and efficiently manage campus energy needs and consumption. Manage all residential and commercial real estate holdings owned by SMU and related corporations. Provide administrative supervision and managerial leadership of staff. Manage and oversee the University’s sustainability program. Manage and oversee compliance with the University master plan. Create and manage an effective space management program to promote efficient use of physical resources and assist with planning efforts of major renovation projects and new construction projects. Qualifications Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in architecture, engineering, or facilities management. License or certificates preferred, as applicable based on degree. A minimum of seven (7) years or progressively responsible experience in facilities planning and management is required. A minimum of five years leading and managing teams is also required. Demonstrated success in managing a comprehensive facilities portfolio, including large‑scale construction, space management, physical operations and maintenance, energy management, and sustainability initiatives is essential. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Candidate must demonstrate strong communication (oral, written and interpersonal) and customer service skills with the ability to communicate with all levels of the university, facilities management staff, leadership, and the public. Strong presentation skills are essential. Candidate must possess strategic problem‑solving skills and the ability to navigate complex, shifting priorities and make independent, sound decisions. Must also have highly developed organizational, planning, and time‑management skills. Strong project management skills are essential. Candidates must have strong expertise in design, construction, and operational processes and systems. Must also have a commitment to sustaining a high‑performing, service‑oriented organization through strategic planning and goal achievement. Physical and Environmental Demands Sit for long periods of time Crawl, climb, kneel Walk for long distances Reach above shoulders Handle objects (dexterity) Push/pull; carry/lift up to 26 lbs. Exposure to excessive noise Exposure to marked changes in temp/humidity Drive motorized equipment Around moving machinery Exposure to dust, fumes, gases, radiation, microwave Deadline to Apply The position is open until filled. Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by June 15, 2026. EEO Statement SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. Benefits SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU’s retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. #J-18808-Ljbffr Southern Methodist University