Overview

University of St. Thomas
Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Facilities Operations

The University of St. Thomas (UST), a private Catholic university committed
to the liberal arts and the religious and intellectual tradition of Catholic
higher education, located in Houston, Texas, is seeking an experienced
Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Facilities. This leadership position reports
directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and oversees the strategic
planning, operations, and administration of all university facilities.

Position Summary:
The AVP of Facilities provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for
the university’s facilities management, operations, and capital projects. This
role is responsible for the maintenance, custodial services, grounds,
construction, environmental compliance, energy management, safety
regulations, and emergency preparedness. The AVP ensures that all facilities
align with the university’s mission, growth strategy, sustainability goals, and
operational needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Planning:
• Develops and oversees the long-term facilities master plan, ensuring
alignment with the university’s strategic goals and future growth.
• Leads the planning, design, and execution of capital improvement
projects, renovations, and deferred maintenance programs.
• Provides expertise on sustainability initiatives, energy efficiency
programs, and infrastructure enhancements.
• Collaborates with university leadership, faculty, and external
stakeholders to ensure that facility improvements meet academic,
residential, and operational needs.
• Establishes policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure
operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

Operations & Maintenance:
• Directs all aspects of facilities maintenance, groundskeeping, custodial
services, and utilities management.
• Implements a preventative maintenance program to extend the
lifecycle of university assets and reduce repair costs.
• Ensures that all facilities are safe, functional, and well-maintained,
supporting a positive campus experience for students, faculty, and
staff.
• Oversees campus-wide safety compliance with ADA, OSHA,
environmental, and fire safety regulations.

Budget & Financial Management:
• Develops and manages the annual facilities budget, ensuring fiscal
responsibility and cost-effective operations.
• Negotiates contracts and service agreements with vendors,
contractors, and utility providers.
• Monitors capital expenditures and operational costs, making strategic
recommendations to optimize resources.

Capital Projects & Construction Management:
• Oversees new construction, renovations, and infrastructure projects
from concept to completion.
• Works closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and project
managers to ensure timely and budget-conscious execution.
• Provides leadership in space planning, resource allocation, and facility
utilization.

Campus Safety & Emergency Preparedness:
• Develops and implements emergency response plans related to
facilities and campus operations.
• Coordinates with university security, local agencies, and internal teams
to ensure preparedness for natural disasters, power outages, and crisis
situations.
• Leads initiatives to enhance campus security infrastructure, lighting,
and emergency communications systems.

Team Leadership & Staff Development:
• Manages and mentors a diverse team of facilities professionals,
including maintenance staff, custodians, project managers, and
administrative personnel.
• Establishes a strong culture of accountability, efficiency, and customer
service within the department.
• Develops and implements training programs, succession planning, and
professional development opportunities.

Qualifications & Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Construction
Management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in facilities
management, operations, and capital projects, preferably in higher
education.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, construction management,
environmental compliance, and safety regulations.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, strategic planning,
and process improvement.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills, with the
ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) proficiency is preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
• Work involves both indoor and outdoor settings, with exposure to
weather conditions and construction sites.
• Must be able to respond to campus emergencies outside of regular
business hours.
• Occasional evening and weekend work may be required based on
project demands

 

For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.

https://stthom.applicantpro.com/jobs/3662674-316179.html