Director of Project Management for Chicago Condominium Management Firm

The Building Group:

The Building Group has been a leader in residential property management for over 30 years, providing management services to over 20,000 residential units throughout Chicagoland. Our company is growing and seeks qualified candidates with experience in managing large-scale building projects and delivering exemplary property management services. The Building Group prides itself on providing a work culture that values staff's work-life balance while fostering professional growth.

Director of Project Management Position:

The Director of Project Management will serve as the primary Owner's Representative for condominium and community associations throughout Chicago, IL, leading the planning, oversight, and execution of major capital improvement projects. Projects may include roof replacements, façade restoration, elevator modernization, garage and mechanical system upgrades, and other significant capital improvements.

The ideal candidate is an extremely organized, detail-oriented project leader who communicates proactively and regularly with all stakeholders, including condominium boards, property managers, engineers, architects, and contractors. The Director of Project Management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with the association's long-term capital plan while safeguarding the board's and owners' interests. Proficiency in professional project management processes, procedures, and software is required.

Compensation includes a base salary plus commission per project. The salary listed here represents the lower end of the range, with significant potential to earn more.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary Owner's Representative for condominium boards and Community Managers, ensuring all capital projects reflect the association's priorities, budget, and long-term goals.
• Lead project planning and oversight without performing contractor work, coordinating consultants and vendors to meet quality, schedule, and budget requirements.
• Provide regular, proactive communication to boards, Community Managers, and other stakeholders regarding project status, key decisions, and risks.
• Review proposals, contracts, and change orders to protect the association's financial and operational interests.
• Assist boards and management teams in developing and implementing long-term capital improvement plans, aligning projects with reserve studies and lifecycle planning.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and coordinate solutions, ensuring the association's perspective is represented at every stage.
• Present project updates, budgets, and technical information in clear, actionable terms for non-technical stakeholders.
• Maintain knowledge of relevant documents, including association declarations, bylaws, municipal codes, and the Illinois Condominium Act, ensuring compliance in all project decisions.
• Support Community Managers in coordinating on-site activities, inspections, and contractor communications.
• Utilize professional project management software and processes to track schedules, budgets, approvals, and deliverables.

Position Expectations:

• Serve as a trusted Owner's Representative, advocating for the association's and board's interests throughout all phases of a capital project.
• Exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously while keeping all stakeholders informed
• Consistent, proactive communication with boards, Community Managers, consultants, and contractors.
• Professional attire, demeanor, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to translate technical and financial information into clear guidance for boards and owners.
• Flexible schedule, including attending board meetings and site visits as required.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel to project sites throughout Chicago.
• Demonstrated proficiency in professional project management processes, procedures, and software.
• On average, the Director of Project Management should expect to spend approximately 75% of their time in the office and 25% in the field , while maintaining strong oversight of consultants and contractors.

Job Qualifications:  

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, business, or related field.
• Experience managing large-scale capital projects in residential or commercial buildings as an Owner's Representative or project manager.
• Administrative, customer service, and supervisory experience.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and professional project management software (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of building systems, capital planning, and construction processes.
• Excellent communication skills with all stakeholders, including boards, managers, consultants, and contractors.
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Project Management Professional (PMP), or Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) are a plus but not required.