Executive Director for University Planning, Design and Construction

JOB SUMMARY

Working under the direction of the University of Connecticut Vice President for Facility Services and University Planning, the Executive Director is responsible for leading and managing all aspects of campus and space planning, architectural design, real estate initiatives, and construction projects. This position ensures the strategic development and maintenance of university facilities and properties, aligning with institutional goals and regulatory requirements. The role involves overseeing capital projects, space planning, sustainability initiatives, campus infrastructure, and real estate development to support the university’s long-term vision and growth.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. In coordination with the Associate Vice President for Budget, Planning and Institutional Research, formulates and develops the master list of university capital projects identified to support the academic plan, including development and maintenance of the master matrix for schedule, funding and disbursement. Responsible for strategic oversight of critical project issues, advanced identification of potential schedule impacts, and risk assessment and management.
2. Identifies and advances partnership and development opportunities at or near the Hartford, Stamford, and Storrs campuses, as well as overseeing projects at Avery Point and Waterbury, as directed by the Vice President for Facility Services and University Planning. The Executive Director works closely with the Associate Vice President for Budget, Planning and Institutional Research and the Office of the General Counsel to establish sound business models for these partnerships, ensuring financial sustainability and strategic alignment with the university’s long-term vision.
3. Leads the UPDC review of policies and procedures for the construction of Capital projects, including but not limited to UPDC staffing models, construction project management and quality control. Coordinates with the UPDC Assistant Director of Capital Budget and Planning to develop models for staffing and project documentation, in accordance with State regulations, that will meet the schedule for funding and construction of the University’s Capital Program.
4. Leads the UPDC review of Procurement policies and procedures that may apply to Capital projects, including pre-qualifications, set asides, compliance requirements, and contracts and agreements. Coordinates with the Director of Procurement and Director of Contracts to identify areas of, and options for, improvements and efficiencies.
5. For overall department capital projects makes recommendations on Construction Delivery Method.  Advises and makes recommendation on difficult technical and administrative problems associated with design contracts and post award administration of construction contracts.
• Responsible for ensuring projects are constructed in accordance with project design, schedule and budget.
• Develops and implements methodology for budgeting projects based on project requirements. Responsible for total project budget control during construction.  
• Identifies budget deficiencies during construction and makes recommendations for a satisfactory resolution.
• Responsible for quality control of project data in computerized project management system related to construction activities
• Responsible for the development of project specific general conditions.
• Responsible for obtaining certificates of occupancy.
• Reviews change requests and makes recommendations to superiors as to their merit.
6. Oversees hiring and training of staff, and plans, organizes, controls and directs project management.
• Ensures that Directors oversee administrative requirements on construction projects, including coordination with University Capital Projects and Contract Administration and University Procurement.
• Ensures that Directors are monitoring regulatory compliance, including but not limited to building codes, for their assigned projects.
• Ensures that Directors are monitoring contractor safety programs for their assigned projects.
• Ensures that Directors are monitoring construction inspection and quality control activities.
7. In partnership with the UPDC Directors:
• Evaluates, develops and implements University-wide policies and procedures for the implementation of standards that represent best industry practices while conforming to state statutes, regulations and laws governing public institutions.
• Coordinates with University Capital Projects and Facilities Procurement division in the maintenance and updating of all forms of design and construction contracts.
• Develops and implements a program for the coordination and preparation of furnitur