Manager of Space Planning and Design

Manager Of Space Planning And Design

The Manager of Space Planning and Design plays a key role in supporting the Columbia School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) in advancing its strategic space management and planning initiatives. Reporting to the Executive Director of Space Planning and Design and providing additional support to the Vice Dean of Infrastructure and Innovation, the Manager oversees space data planning activities and project management related to SEASs new building construction. The Manager of Space Planning and Design serves as a key contributor to SEASs strategic efforts in optimizing and advancing its physical environment.

The role involves managing space data and planning activities, supporting major construction and renovation projects, and fostering collaboration across faculty, administrators, consultants, and University partners. This position offers an exciting opportunity for a proactive and resourceful professional to help shape innovative, data-informed space solutions within a dynamic academic setting.

Responsibilities

Space Planning (30%) : Manage and maintain SEASs proprietary space data management system, ensuring accuracy and completeness of space utilization records across the schools portfolio. Conduct semesterly space utilization surveys for laboratories, classrooms, offices, and student spaces. Develop reports, layouts, and visual materials (e.g., spreadsheets, dashboards, diagrams) to support planning discussions and decisions. Manage space request proposals submitted to the University, including justifications and impact assessments. Partner with departments, centers, and faculty to assess and identify space needs and opportunities for improved utilization. Identify space opportunity for pre-award grant proposals and provide post-award deliverables related to project planning. Collaborate with SEAS Facilities and Operations on space management activities and provide backup support as needed. Contribute to special projects and initiatives as assigned.

New Large-scale Capital Project Support -(30%) : Represent the school in design, construction, and consultant meetings, documenting key decisions, milestones, and action items for leadership. Develop comprehensive project presentations and reports to support fundraising, communications, and stakeholder engagement. Coordinate with University partners including EH&S, Operations, Capital Finance, CUIT, Public Safety, and the Office of Sustainability through all phases of the new engineering building design and construction process.

Administration -(30%) : Oversee the operations of the Office of Space Planning and Design, ensuring efficient execution of priorities and alignment with SEASs strategic goals. Manage and interpret planning data to ensure evidence-based decision-making and strategic resource allocation. Develop and implement administrative systems and workflows that enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Supervise the development of executive-level briefings, reports, and presentations that synthesize data analysis, emerging trends, and strategic recommendations for SEAS leadership. Manage progress on SEAS and departmental initiatives and ensure timely completion of deliverables and follow-up actions. Document planning activities, decisions, and performance metrics to guide long-term strategic planning and institutional compliance. Identify and resolve operational challenges proactively, recommending process improvements and technology solutions where appropriate. Serve as a key operational advisor to the Executive Director, providing analytical insight and operational guidance on matters related to space planning and resource management.

Budgeting and Financial Support -(10%) : Develop and monitor budgets for space planning, renovation, and capital projects. Prepare cost analyses and maintain cash flow models for ongoing and future projects. Manage cost reconciliations, data collection related to operational and project expenses, and support SEAS Finance and SEAS Operations on procurement activities. Participate in financial negotiations related to the acquisition of new space, working closely with SEAS leadership and the University Real Estate group.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors degree required; preferred fields include architecture, planning, facilities management, or project management. 35 years of experience in space planning, facilities management, or project coordination; higher education experience strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to lead planning initiatives, manage space portfolios, and align facilities strategies with institutional priorities and goals. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management and scheduling software. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to collaborate and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Demonstrated capacity to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate within a team environment. Familiarity with construction project workflows, space transition planning, or occupancy management is a plus. Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.