Full-time · On-site
Director of Project Management
This is a high-stakes leadership role overseeing a $350 million annual capital project portfolio for a world-class university. It combines technical construction expertise with sophisticated stakeholder management in a dense urban environment. The position is perfect for a veteran project leader who excels at navigating the complexities of New York City real estate and institutional politics.
Columbia University · New York, New York, United States · Posted 23 April 2026
The role
Overview
This is a high-stakes leadership role overseeing a $350 million annual capital project portfolio for a world-class university. It combines technical construction expertise with sophisticated stakeholder management in a dense urban environment. The position is perfect for a veteran project leader who excels at navigating the complexities of New York City real estate and institutional politics.
What they need
Requirements & Skills
Key Responsibilities
- Direct a portfolio of 30 to 40 active capital projects ranging from $50k to over $350M
- Supervise a team of up to six internal project managers and various external consultants
- Liaise with senior academic and administrative officers to align facilities with university goals
- Manage the full design and construction lifecycle, ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards
- Coordinate with internal departments including Public Safety, Finance, and Real Estate
Essential
- Minimum of ten years of professional experience in design and construction management
- Proven track record of managing multiple complex capital projects simultaneously
- Extensive experience working within vacant and occupied New York City buildings
- Comprehensive understanding of the full project life cycle from planning to closeout
- Demonstrated ability to supervise and mentor internal project management staff
- Experience managing external design professionals, consultants, and contractors
Preferred
- Experience in higher education or institutional capital project management
- Advanced knowledge of New York City building codes and regulatory requirements
- Experience managing projects with values exceeding $100 million
Key Skills
Strategic leadershipOperational managementBudget oversight and financial planningStakeholder engagementDesign managementTime managementInterpersonal communicationContractor and consultant supervision
Networking
People to Know
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Perks
Benefits & perks
- Competitive salary based on experience and training
- Opportunity to work for a world-renowned Ivy League institution
- Comprehensive benefits package typical of a major university
- High-visibility leadership role
- Dynamic work environment across multiple campus locations
Next step
Apply now
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