Job Summary:

Reporting to the University President, the chief planning & facilities officer provides leadership and oversight of institutional capital planning, construction, real estate acquisition, property disposition and facilities operations to support The University of Akron’s physical footprint, institutional mission and strategic roadmap. With direction over the Division of Capital Planning and Facilities Management, the CPFO is responsible for an annual budget exceeding $20 million. Together, the departments managed by the CPFO are comprised of approximately 200 employees, managing 200+ acres and over 8 million gross square feet, across two locations. This position ensures effective stewardship of the full facilities lifecycle, including master planning, project prioritization, infrastructure maintenance, sustainability and energy management, in compliance with both University and State of Ohio regulations.

Essential Functions:

• Lead strategic planning and execution over capital improvements, facilities operations, real estate, sustainability and space utilization across university campuses.
• Oversee all functions of the Capital Planning and Facilities Management divisions, including financial management, personnel oversight, construction, maintenance, energy operations and additional needs.
• Direct campus master planning, design, and construction; coordinate current projects with long-term capital and academic planning priorities.
• Lead efforts to optimize space utilization and rationalize the real estate portfolio, ensuring the environment supports current and projected enrollment and programmatic demand.
• Establish best practices and systems for units, including energy and utility management, custodial and grounds services, trades and maintenance, fleet and moving services.
• Drive sustainability initiatives, including recycling, waste reduction, and energy efficiency, aligning such endeavors with institutional goals and benchmarks.
• Manage departmental budgets and pursue cost-optimization strategies, including shared services, strategic sourcing and performance-based contracting.
• Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements and collaborate with Human Resources to maintain positive labor relations.
• Liaise with Wayne College on facility operations and planning.
• Coordinate with academic and administrative leaders to meet space and infrastructure needs; prepare and submit capital budgets and funding requests.
• Maintain compliance with state and federal regulations related to facilities and construction; monitor legislative developments and advise on policy impacts.
• Collaborate with public safety and environmental health teams on emergency preparedness and regulatory compliance.
• Represent the university in external partnerships and regional planning efforts; serve on internal committees and work groups to advance institutional goals.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders across all levels, including trustees, faculty, staff, and community leaders.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Please refer to the position and leadership profile for more details: Chief Planning and Facilities Officer.

Additional Position Information:

Education:

Requires a relevant bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, business or other relevant fields.

Preferred:

State of Ohio Registered Architect; Certified Facilities Manager.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible experience in facilities or building management, including direct oversight of master planning, capital improvement projects and large-scale construction activities within a complex physical environment. Must include experience leading cross-functional teams involved in design, construction, and facilities operations.
• Thorough knowledge of The University of Akron and surrounding community, State of Ohio, and relevant federal and local regulations related to architecture, engineering, construction, and procurement.
• Demonstrated expertise in budget development, financial analysis and strategic planning.
• Strong understanding of sustainable design, construction and facilities management best practices.
• Excellent project management skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Proven negotiation and collaboration skills.
• Strong written, oral and interpersonal communication abilities.

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed beginning June 30, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled.

Compensation: The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience.

Application Instructions: In order to be considered for this position, complete the online application and attach your resume and cover letter. Final candidates will be asked to provide three professional references.

FLSA Status (exempt/nonexempt):

United States of America (Exempt)

Union Affiliation (if applicable):

For assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:

Natasha Kuzmina

Email:

nkuzmina@uakron.edu

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Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.

Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement

It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.