Senior Director of Capital Projects and Operations

Cranbrook Educational Community, established in 1904 by philanthropists George and Ellen Booth, is a leading center for education, science, and art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. It hosts over 1,600 students across its Pre‑K‑12 independent college preparatory schools and numerous graduate programs, and has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark.

Bloomfield Hills, MI

Salary: $180k + based on experience

Position Summary

The Senior Director of Capital Projects & Operations will provide strategic direction and comprehensive oversight for all aspects of the organization’s physical infrastructure, including master planning, capital projects, facilities management, and day‑to‑day campus operations. The role will supervise and integrate the functions of the Director of Operations and the Capital Projects team, ensuring effective planning, development, maintenance, and operation of all organizational assets in alignment with the mission and long‑term goals of the community.

Core Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for capital planning, construction, renovation, and facilities operations across the organization.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate the Director of Operations and Capital Projects team; foster collaboration and professional development.
• Develop and implement departmental goals, objectives, and performance metrics aligned with the strategic plan.
• Oversee the implementation of an Enterprise Asset Management / Computerized Maintenance Management System (EAM/CMMS) solution.
• Create and refine policies, procedures, and best practices for capital project management and facilities operations.
• Manage and approve capital and operating budgets for both departments, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Integrate capital projects with ongoing operations to minimize disruption and maximize long‑term asset value.
• Develop standardized MEP systems as part of capital improvement initiatives.
• Represent the organization with regulatory agencies, community stakeholders, and governing committees; obtain permits and approvals.
• Negotiate and oversee contracts for major projects and services.
• Champion sustainability, energy and hydrology efficiency, preventive maintenance, and stewardship of physical and natural assets.
• Prepare high‑level reports and recommendations for senior leadership on facilities performance and future needs.
• Ensure adherence to building codes, safety regulations, environmental standards, and organizational policies.
• Facilitate communication among Capital Projects, Operations, and other departments, including donor relations.
• Be available after hours for emergencies, special functions, and meetings.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The Senior Director directly supervises the Director of Operations, the Capital Projects team (two staff), and a Project Administrator. Indirectly, the Senior Director oversees their respective teams including professional management staff, project managers, technical personnel, and administrative staff handling capital development, facilities maintenance, landscape, transportation, housekeeping, and other campus services.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Facilities Management, or a closely related field.
• At least twenty (20) years of progressive experience in facilities management, capital projects, and operations, with a minimum of ten (10) years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success managing complex capital projects from concept to completion and overseeing large‑scale facilities operations.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, contract administration, budgeting, financial management, master planning, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience with EAM/CMMS implementation and management.
• Excellent organizational and oral/written communication skills.
• Strong negotiation, presentation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Valid Michigan driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, Public Administration).
• Relevant professional licenses (e.g., Professional Engineer, Registered Architect).
• Experience in a non‑profit, educational, or institutional setting, especially with historic or landmark properties.
• Knowledge of historic preservation and restoration practices; advanced administrative, fiscal, and business systems for facilities management.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: $180k + based on experience.

Benefits include medical, dental, life insurance, long‑term and short‑term disability, retirement programs with employer contribution, generous paid time off, 11 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays, employee discounts, and a collaborative educational environment.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter to: Senior Director of Capital Projects & Operations | Cranbrook Employment Opportunities.

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