Description of Position

The Director of Space Planning and Management provides strategic leadership for the Space Planning and Management team within the Department of Planning, Space, and Real Estate (PSRE) in University Services and serves as the University's expert regarding space utilization, planning, and management. This position serves as a key resource to support decision-making at multiple levels throughout the University regarding space utilization and allocation, directly overseeing the University of Minnesota Twin Cities Campus' space portfolio and the administration of space planning and management policies and procedures systemwide. This position handles a variety of projects related to the assignment of space between collegiate and/or administrative units. The director leads systemwide strategic initiatives involving the use of space and adds strategic value by understanding academic program space needs.

This is a 12 month, 100% time position, which reports to the Assistant Vice President of Planning, Space, and Real Estate.

Responsibilities

1. Strategic Space Planning and Management (20%)
a. Develop and maintain a big picture understanding of the strategic space needs of individual academic and administrative units, serving as a strategic space broker to enhance overall space utilization at the University and establish the highest and best use of space.
b. Serve as a systemwide expert on space planning and utilization at the University
c. Keep abreast of space planning and management trends, particularly in the area of hybrid workplace models.

2. Identification of Space Needs and Solutions (40%)
a. Respond to and prioritize space specific requests from University units and help identify programmatic requirements. Translate these programmatic requirements into assignable space needs and functional requirements using University standards.
b. Develop options for accommodating identified space needs, based upon knowledge of programmatic requirements, institutional resources and priorities, and standards for utilization of existing, new, or reassigned space.
c. Provide oversight to space planners in the creation and presentation to stakeholders of conceptual test fit plans and recommendations to support space planning efforts.
d. Provide a seamless handoff to Capital Project Management and University Construction Services/FM Design in the event that a space needs assessment transitions to a capital project.
e. Provide a seamless handoff to the Real Estate Office in the event that a space needs assessment translates to a need to lease space off campus. Ensure off-campus space complies with University space standards.

3. Strategic Space Utilization Initiatives and Process Improvement (20%)
a. Identify and advance strategic opportunities for changing the University's approach to space utilization, with a focus on enhancing the efficient use of space and creating new opportunities for enhanced collaboration.
b. Work with University partners to review and amend the University's space quality and utilization standards.
c. Define methodology to measure utilization based on benchmarks/ metrics including occupancy review; funding density; efficiency within space types.
d. Develop relevant space utilization reports to support business needs/ strategic planning requirements.
e. Lead the Space Planning and Management Team and key partners to identify needs and design and implement process improvements for the management of space systemwide.

4. Leadership and Supervision (20%)
a. Provide departmental leadership, supervision, and guidance to the Space Planning and Management Team. Understand core strengths of team members and challenge team members to build on these strengths and challenge themselves to stretch beyond their comfort zones.
b. Enhance employee engagement, focusing on team building, professional development, and opportunities for project leadership.
c. Coordinate with departmental partners to ensure a clear understanding and alignment of roles and responsibilities.
d. Work to establish, build and strengthen relationships with system campuses, ensuring continuity and uniformity of service delivery.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a hybrid work environment - part time remote and part time in an on-campus office environment.

Compensation

Compensation will be commensurate with experience. Starting salary will be within the
following range: $130,000 - $160,000

Minimum Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree and 10 years of relevant experience, with a minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience.
* Knowledge of and experience with higher education space planning practices policies, systems, and procedures is strongly preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

* Ability to work across diverse groups, both internal and external, to establish and maintain effective working relationships with team members, capital project managers, academic units, consultants, etc.
* Ability to navigate the interrelationships of academic, administrative, educational, personnel and fiscal programs.
* Ability to communicate effectively, succinctly, and persuasively in writing, orally and interpersonally.
* Strong attention to detail.
* Excellent judgment and ability to work independently.
* Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and meet challenging deadlines.
* Demonstrated integrity and adaptability.
* Ability to effectively manage through ambiguous assignments.
* Awareness of, appreciation for, and responsiveness to the needs of a diverse workplace, as well as a commitment to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in PSRE.
* Ability to develop and process information using space management and design software.
* Ability to lead and manage a high performing team - understanding team member strengths and creating opportunities for further development.
* Experience with technology tools such as enterprise asset management systems and building information modeling
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel & Power Point and Google's technology Suite including GMAIL, Calendar, Docs, Sheets & Slides

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).