George Washington University has retained Helbling, a ZRG company to conduct an executive search to secure an Associate Vice President, Facilities, Transportation & Utilities.

For more details about this oppurtunity, please view the position profile by clicking the cover image below.

Position Summary

The Division of Safety and Operations (DSO) is responsible for providing a variety of safety and operational services to the GW community across three campuses comprised of over 150 buildings totaling approximately 14M square feet. Our mission is to enhance our campus communities by providing quality operational services that support GW’s academic mission.

The Associate Vice President, Campus Operations will lead a 400-plusteamresponsible for all activities related to the ongoing maintenance of campus facilities, including scheduled preventative maintenance, services, and repairs to all campus facilities.
This position oversees activities within our Transportation and Logistics Services Department, including the campus shuttle contract, GW Safe Ride service, university fleet operations, moving and hauling services, and all waste management activities.

This AVP also oversees the Office of Sustainability, which leads implementation of sustainability initiatives, collaboratively motivating others to embrace the university’s ambitious sustainability goals and incorporating sustainability into operations.

Additionally, this position oversees the Utilities, Energy and Engineering Department, which includes integration with central plant operations with a cogeneration plant, all university utility systems and energy usage, as well as energy and environmental programs. Other responsibilities also include direct oversight of a third-party general services contract, as well as interface with multiple collective bargaining units, preparing budgets, vendor relations and ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of services within resource parameters. Strategic thinking and planning skills are essential to this role.
The position is a senior member of the Division of Safety and Operations leadership team and reports directly to the Vice President for the Division of Safety and Operations.

The AVP works collaboratively with colleagues to deliver quality facilities, transportation, utilities, and customer service to all members of the campus community.

Responsibilites 

Facilites Management and Building Operations Supervision

• Plan and administer all maintenance of building operations and it’s building equipment.
• Plan and direct the repair and alteration of existing University structures and related equipment.
• Direct, establish and ensure the cost-effectiveness of all facilities operations.
• Develop, implement and revise as necessary building maintenance services policies and programs for both immediate and long-range University facility functions.
• Ensure proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment, supplies and the vehicles overseen by the AVP.
• Assist in administrative review of new projects and building renovation.
• Monitor building maintenance contracts for code and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor and control costs of all building maintenance contracts, including custodial services, landscape, mechanical, and all other Facility support service contracts.
• Perform quality control inspections to ensure adherence to all building maintenance contract specifications and relevant industry standards.
• Prepare reports which address the design and analysis of methods of controlling costs and material.
• Manage collective bargaining unit relationship
• Deferred Maintenance Program
• In consultation with external facilities engineers, assist with the preparation and management of the University’s deferred maintenance program.
• As requested by, and in consultation with, the VP of DSO, assists with preparation and delivery of reports and presentations to the Board of Trustees Real Estate and Campus Development Committee and the Finance Committee on deferred maintenance.
• Assist with preparation and submission of funding proposals pertaining to deferred maintenance projects.
• Prepare recommendations of building and facilities modifications to enhance energy conservation. Work with users, user groups and the Sustainability Office on the implementation of conservation measures. Participate in formulating and recommending policies, procedures, and guidelines to accomplish energy conservation objectives.
• Assist the Sustainability Office by providing consultative and analytical energy assessments such as program evaluation and planning systems development.
• Propose guidelines regarding energy utilization for all campus buildings and facilities.
• Transportation and Logistics
• Oversee the organization and operations of all transportation-related activities across three campuses including shuttle operations, fleet management and waste management
• Oversee the development of a Zero Waste unit within Relocation Services. 
• Manage collective bargaining unit relationship
• Utilities, Energy and Engineering
• Assist in realizing the university’s carbon neutral goals in collaboration with the Office of Sustainability.
• Support university energy initiatives and environmental programs that are strategic and forward thinking.
• Oversee activities and initiatives related to the management of the central utility plant and cogeneration operations. 
• Budget Oversight
• Assist in the annual preparation and submission of the departmental budget and deferred maintenance plan.
• Coordinate approved internal or external resources in support of the building operations and deferred maintenance programs.
• Direct the development and review of cost estimates for renovation and repair work using established cost and time standards.
• Screen, approve and establish priorities for work requisitions and related expenditures.
• Staff Supervision
• Establish departmental personnel management and workforce account utilization policies and determine departmental productivity standards.
• Assign, prioritize and assess the work of maintenance and operations supervisory and department heads; interview and recommend employment for departmental supervisory personnel; direct selection of department staff.
• Development of robust and ongoing training to ensure that staff have appropriate knowledge, tools and resources to perform their duties effectively and safely.
• Responsible for annual performance reviews, including midpoint check points and staff and unit goal setting.
• Promote continuous improvement of teamwork, workplace safety and environmental practices. Determine the need and direct the preparation of specifications and plans for contract and force labor work in support of the University’s departmental programs.
• Energy Conservation and Sustainability programs

About George Washington University 

George Washington University (GWU), located in Washington, D.C., is a renowned private institution with a strong focus on research and experiential learning. Established in 1821, GWU offers a unique educational setting where the city itself acts as an extended classroom. This location provides students with exceptional opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world experiences due to its proximity to major international institutions, government agencies, and cultural landmarks.

The university has a diverse student body, with over 11,000 undergraduates enrolled in a variety of academic programs. Popular fields of study include International Relations, Political Science, and Business, which align with the university's close connections to the nation's political and economic centers. GWU also offers a vibrant campus life, featuring more than 400 student organizations, Division I athletics, and numerous cultural and social events that contribute to a dynamic and inclusive community.

GWU's dedication to excellence is reflected in its highly ranked programs and distinguished alumni, who include influential figures in politics, business, and culture. The university's strategic location and comprehensive academic offerings make it an ideal place for students eager to engage with the world and make a significant impact in their chosen fields.

Location

Washington, DC

Classification Minimum:

• Qualified candidates will hold a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 10 years of relevant professional experience, Master’s degree, or higher, in a relevant area of study preferred. Relevant experience must include at least 4 years of senior leadership/executive level experience. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position.

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Building Sciences, Architectural Engineering, Facilities Management, Operations Management, or related field.
• Knowledge of building operations dealing with housekeeping, general trades, HVAC, landscaping and grounds, pest control and building engineering.
• Knowledge of energy conservation programs.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally & in writing not only with staff, but with deans, directors, division vice presidents, faculty, trustees, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously, with the ability to both think strategically while successfully managing and improving daily operations.
• Knowledge of AiM/Assetworks Facilities Management Software

Additional Required Licenses/Certification Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Building Sciences, Architecture, Engineering, Facilities Management, Operations Management, Construction Management, or related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of direct supervisory experience in a higher education setting.
• A minimum 10 years of facility operations experience in a higher education setting.