Career Center

Job Summary

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is actively seeking an Assistant Vice President (AVP), Facilities to join its Campus Services Division. Facilities support RISD's mission by maintaining a safe and sustainable campus through planning, construction services, building operations, careful management of resources, and respectful personal interaction with the entire RISD community. Their work directly contributes to an inclusive learning and working environment, where everyone can thrive. As a vital part of the campus community, the Facilities Department is key to creating a physical environment that reflects the institution's commitment to ensuring that all campus spaces are accessible and welcoming.

Under direction from the VP of Campus Services, The AVP works closely with RISD leadership to establish multi-year plans and budgets for short and long-term maintenance of RISD's 60 buildings, many of which are historic. The AVP works closely with the VP of Campus Services, college leadership, and others, as needed, to track deferred maintenance and propose multi-year funding solutions. As needed, AVP may prepare presentations and other materials for the Board of Trustees in relation to the responsibilities of the position, specifically deferred maintenance and capital planning.

The AVP is a strategic thought partner for leadership related to building maintenance and space planning as space is a critical factor impacting enrollment capacity. The AVP leads the development and implementation of facility plans in alignment with the college's overall strategic plan, as well as academic and administrative departmental plans, guidelines, and policies to ensure synergies. The AVP works collaboratively with leaders within Campus Services and across the institution to align priorities and identify opportunities for efficiency and innovation. The AVP stands in for the VP of Campus Services as designated.

We seek a culturally competent candidate who will thrive in a campus environment that is committed to advancing the principles of social equity and inclusion, environmental and climate justice, and equal access to resources and opportunities.

Essential Functions:

Facilities Management and Building Operations:

• In alignment with RISD's strategic plan goals, develop, implement and revise building maintenance services policies and programs for immediate and long-range facility functions.

• Through the leadership of the facilities management team, ensures the daily operations run efficiently and cost-effectively; the repairs and alterations of equipment and structures meet related standards and specifications; equipment, supplies, and vehicles are properly used and maintained; and code and regulatory compliance is adhered to in building maintenance contracts.

• Reviews building maintenance contracts, including custodial services, maintenance, grounds and moving, mechanical, and all other Facility support service contracts to they include cost control and are compliant with applicable codes and regulations.

• Plan and ensure all building operations and equipment maintenance are performed according to standards.

• Perform quality control inspections to ensure adherence to all building maintenance contract specifications and relevant industry standards.

• Leads the administrative review of new projects and building renovations, engaging applicable facilities' resources.

• Prepare reports that address the design and analysis of methods of controlling costs and materials.

Deferred Maintenance Program:

• In consultation with internal partners and external consultants, prepare, prioritize, and manage the College's deferred maintenance program. Develop strong internal relationships with faculty leaders and staff to understand needs and offer expert guidance.

• As requested by, and in consultation with, the VP of Campus Services, assists with preparation and delivery of reports and presentations to the Board of Trustees Stewardship and Sustainability Committee on deferred maintenance.

• Prepare and submit funding proposals pertaining to deferred maintenance projects.

Energy Conservation and Sustainability programs:

• Prepare recommendations for review by the VP of Campus Services of building and facilities modifications to enhance energy conservation.

• Work with community members and the Environmental Health and Safety Office on the implementation of conservation measures.

• Participate in formulating and recommending policies, procedures, and guidelines to accomplish energy conservation objectives.

• Assist the Environmental Health and Safety Office by providing consultative and analytical energy assessments such as program evaluation and planning systems development.

• Propose guidelines for review by the VP of Campus Services regarding energy utilization for all campus buildings and facilities.

Budget Oversight:

• Oversee and develop the annual preparation and submission of the departmental and deferred maintenance budgets. Manage budgets within established parameters and with a focus on institutional priorities.

• Coordinate approved internal or external resources in support of the building operations, academic, and deferred maintenance programs and projects.

• Direct the development and review of cost estimates for renovation and repair work working collaboratively with established purchasing policies and procedures.

• Oversee the review, approval, and established priorities for work requisitions and related expenditures.

Staff Oversight:

• Hire, train, develop, and evaluate staff. Set and align departmental and staff goals with those of the college and motivate staff to achieve the same.

• Models inclusive leadership. Demonstrates respect, empathy, and an open mind to the perspectives and contributions of all team members.

• Assesses staffing model and implements actions to ensure the necessary skills and expertise to support smooth operations, productivity, and ultimately, achievement of objectives.

• Assign, prioritize, and assess the work of maintenance, operations and planning, design, and construction leaders;

• Ensure that staff have appropriate training and tools to perform their duties effectively and safely.

• Provide insightful coaching, mentorship, guidance, and feedback, provide meaningful assignments to advance individual capabilities.

• Promote continuous improvement of teamwork, workplace safety, and operational efficiency.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Experience:

• Ability to effectively communicate verbally & in writing with various constituencies including deans, directors, department heads, senior leadership, faculty and trustees.

• Commitment to diversity and inclusion and an ability to connect with others and cultivate relationships based on mutual trust and respect through active listening and direct dialogue.

• A team player committed to collaborative approaches. Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders across the campus

• Computer literacy and technology competency as well as experience with Microsoft Office, particularly database applications, word processing and spreadsheets is essential.

• A leadership style that encourages clarity, performance, results, and teamwork. A strong and supportive manager, modeling a culture of accountability, openness and high-quality service, committed to developing and utilizing the expertise of their team.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously, with the ability to both think strategically while successfully managing and improving daily operations.

• Bachelor's degree in Building Sciences, Architecture, Engineering, Facilities Management, Operations Management, Construction Management, or related field, as well as ten (10) years of facilities operations experience, preferably in a higher education setting, and five (5) years of direct supervisory experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience, are required.

• Knowledge of building operations dealing with housekeeping, general trades, HVAC, landscaping and grounds, and engineering, and experience managing facilities in historic buildings

• Knowledge of recycling programs

Union:

No

Work Schedule:

35 hours per week; 12 months per year

Employment Status:

Full-time; Exempt; Regular

Grade:

570EX

Work Modality:

Hybrid eligible

Documents Required to Apply:

Cover Letter (required)

Resume (required)

Salary Grade Structure

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.

RISD recognizes diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.