Senior Assistant Vice President – Capital Projects Risk Management

Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants should attach a cover letter and a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application. We suggest the documents be in a PDF format to avoid formatting issues. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of extending but, no guarantees.

Position Summary

The Senior Assistant Vice President for Capital Projects Risk Management provides strategic support to the Vice President of Facilities and Capital Planning and the broader F&CP management team. This role will focus on the following key objectives:

• Work in partnership with the Project Management Group to assess key areas of risk that the university is exposed to.
• Troubleshoot all high-risk issues during the full life cycle of key F&CP development and renovation projects that require special attention.
• Assess the effectiveness of current project management practices, processes, and systems; identify areas for improvement, and recommend solutions that can be implemented by the management team.
• Work on key strategic projects across the F&CP platform as assigned by the Vice President of Facilities and Capital Planning.

The ideal candidate understands this to be a one-year appointment with the possibility of extension but no guarantees. The candidate for the Senior Assistant Vice President for Capital Projects Risk Management will possess strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities, enabling them to effectively assess risk areas and troubleshoot high-risk issues throughout project lifecycles. They will have a keen attention to detail for evaluating current project management practices and systems, identifying areas for improvement, and recommending actionable solutions. Strategic thinking is essential, as they will lead key projects assigned by the Vice President of Facilities and Capital Planning. Excellent communication skills are crucial for collaborating with the Project Management Group and the broader F&CP management team. The candidate will demonstrate leadership qualities, guiding teams and implementing recommendations effectively. Adaptability is important, as they will need to handle various projects and issues as they arise. A proactive approach to anticipating and addressing potential risks, along with a team-oriented mindset, will ensure successful collaboration with different departments and stakeholders.

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440 , work arrangements may be subject to change.

This is a term-limited, full-time, benefits-eligible position, and salary is contingent on experience and qualifications. *Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a closely related field
• 10 years experience as a licensed registered architect or registered professional engineer
• Skills
  • Conflict Resolution: The ability to mediate conflicts and disputes that may arise during construction projects.
  • Quality Control: Ensuring the highest quality standards in design and construction processes.
  • Leadership: The ability to lead, inspire, and motivate teams to achieve project goals.
  • Strategic Thinking: Thinking critically and strategically to develop and implement effective construction and development strategies.
  • Adaptability: Being adaptable to changing project conditions and industry trends.
  • Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail to ensure that construction and design meet high-quality standards and specifications.
  • Conflict Resolution: The ability to resolve conflicts and address challenges that may arise during projects.
  • Innovative Problem-Solving: Being able to find creative solutions to complex issues and obstacles.
  • Stakeholder Management: Effectively managing relationships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and investors.
  • Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating risks associated with construction projects.
  • Decision-Making: Making sound decisions based on data, analysis, and industry expertise.
  • Client and Customer Focus: A commitment to meeting client and customer expectations and delivering value.
  • Navigate Through Ambiguity: making informed decisions and leading teams effectively in dynamic and uncertain environments.

Preferences:

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a closely related field.
• 20 years of experience as a licensed registered architect or registered professional engineer.
• Experience with energy-efficient or LEED-certified Buildings, preferably having LEED AP certification.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, negotiations, and influencing building design teams' value engineering efforts.
• A work history that includes the design, construction, and operation of a variety of building mechanical systems

Essential Functions

• Problem-solving skills with a focus on collaboratively reaching solutions.
• Ability to effectively manage budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
• Embrace collaboration and lead through a team dynamic.
• Proven personnel management skills, including performance management, workforce development, and the ability to create and motivate teams.
• Effectively communicate project details, timelines, and challenges to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Actively solicit and incorporate feedback from users and stakeholders throughout the design and construction process.
• Partner with the Office of Sustainability to ensure all projects align with Rice's sustainability goals.
• Work with the Rice Real Estate Company to help them reach their goals.
• Ability to lead and collaborate with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, take initiative in the development and management of concurrent projects, and meet deadlines.
• Proven ability to maintain a broad organizational perspective and relationship with other departments to effectively carry out the internal and external relationships of the office.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively, take initiative in the development and management of concurrent projects, and meet deadlines.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Workplace Conditions

• Must be willing and able to enter all university spaces. (including tunnels, rooftops, construction sites)

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

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Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.