Applications are invited for the position of Director, Physical Plant to join Brandon University. Reporting to the
Vice-President (Administration & Finance), the Director provides strategic leadership for the planning, maintenance, and
modernization of campus facilities, grounds, and security services. Brandon is seeking a collaborative leader to oversee
capital projects, advance sustainability initiatives, and ensure a safe, efficient, and well-maintained campus environment.
About Brandon University
Brandon University is a student-focused institution recognized for academic
excellence and community engagement. Offering a personalized learning experience with small class sizes, BU provides
undergraduate and graduate programs across Arts, Science, Education, Health Studies, and Music. Committed to equity,
diversity, and inclusion, BU fosters innovation and collaboration to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly changing
world.
Position Overview
Reporting to the Vice-President (Administration & Finance), the
Director, Physical Plant oversees capital projects, sustainability initiatives, and risk management while ensuring a safe and
welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff. The Director leads a team of up to 50 staff, oversees
infrastructure across the 30-acre campus, and drives operational excellence and compliance with regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide strategic leadership for campus facilities planning, modernization, and
sustainability initiatives, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and long-term growth. Oversee operations and
maintenance of all buildings and grounds, including preventative maintenance programs, cleaning standards, and compliance
with health and safety regulations. Oversee capital projects and renovations, managing all phases from design
through completion. Coordinate architects, engineers, and contractors to deliver projects on time, within scope,
and on budget. Direct campus security and risk management, including surveillance systems, card access, emergency
preparedness, and collaboration with law enforcement and regulatory agencies. Champion sustainability and
energy efficiency, implementing initiatives that reduce environmental impact, optimize resource use, and
support institutional sustainability goals. Develop and mentor a high-performing team, providing guidance,
training, and performance management for up to 50 staff. Provide direct supervision of approximately 25 unionized building
service worker staff. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ensure compliance and
governance, maintaining adherence to building codes, safety regulations, and institutional policies. Prepare reports
and recommendations for senior leadership and governing bodies. Position requires full-time on-site presence at our
Brandon campus and participation in a rotating 24/7 on-call schedule which includes evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor’s degree. Preference may given to those holding
degrees in Business Administration, Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related field. A master’s degree is considered
an asset., An equivalent combination of education and experience, including a technical college diploma in a relevant
engineering discipline (e.g., Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Construction) may be considered. A minimum of five (5) years of
progressive leadership experience in administration, facilities management, or construction, is required. Extensive
experience supervising unionized staff represented by different unions. Experience interpreting and managing within
the parameters of various collective agreements. Demonstrated strong financial acumen, strategic planning capabilities,
and a solid understanding of engineering, project, and construction management principles, along with knowledge of business
management practices. Proven leadership and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, along with excellent interpersonal,
communication, and negotiation abilities, and the capacity to work effectively with diverse internal and external partners.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to plan, organize, and manage multiple priorities
in a dynamic environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. Experience working in public sector
or post-secondary institutions is preferred. Project management certification and leadership training are considered assets.
CMMS experience considered an asset. A valid driver’s license is required.
How to Apply
If you are interested
in this opportunity, contact Mark Gillis, Partner, at mgillis@kbrs.ca or Beth McLennan,
Consultant, at bmclennan@kbrs.ca or submit your application online at: https://academicacareers.com/job/director-physical-plant-2/
Brandon University is committed to equity, welcomes diversity, and hires on the basis of merit. All qualified
individuals who may contribute to the diversification of the University, especially women, persons with
disabilities, Indigenous persons, racialized persons, and persons of all sexual orientations and
genders are encouraged to apply. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given priority.
Brandon University and KBRS will provide support in the recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities,
including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation to
participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact
accommodate@kbrs.ca or bmclennan@kbrs.ca