Chief of University Planning, Design & Construction

Date Posted: 01/13/2026
Req : 46599
Faculty/Division: Operations and Real Estate Partnerships
Department: University Planning, Design & Construction
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Position Number:

Description:

The Chief of University Planning, Design & Construction (UPDC) will assume stewardship of one of the University's most precious assets - a portfolio of land, buildings and related facilities spanning academic, research, administrative, residential and commercial buildings on three campuses. The St. George Campus is prominently situated in a complex urban setting, with a wide variety of architectural styles, and is surrounded by diverse neighbourhoods and landmarks.

The UTSC and the UTM campuses are approximately 30 km from downtown Toronto and present different conditions and complexities.

Committed to design excellence, sensitive to its historical context and mindful of the need to approach expenditures in a responsible, sustainable way, the portfolio presents many challenges and opportunities. Overseeing an exceptional portfolio of land and buildings, this is a significant leadership position with an extensive impact on the student experience at the University of Toronto. The Chief will develop strategies to align the University’s physical assets to its academic mission, maximize value for the future, and optimize use of the university’s physical assets in the immediate term, develop both the long term and annual plans for acquisition, divestiture, construction and redevelopment of land and buildings on all campuses.

Leading a team of professionals, the incumbent is responsible for establishing the strategic direction and vision for the University Planning, Design and Construction Division through a group of Directors (Project Development, Design & Engineering, and Project Management) and support staff including architects and engineers. The Chief will provide leadership and coordination in: optimizing the utilization of the University’s existing physical resources, planning for future capital projects that are both fiscally responsible and aligned with the University’s key academic and research missions, enabling project development that is a smooth transition between planning and implementation , providing in-house design and engineering services, and ensuring successful implementation of capital projects through project management.

Job Duties

• Develop strategic plans with senior management for redevelopment of University land and buildings to optimize opportunities for additional academic space and potential for leasing and commercial revenues.
• Oversee the implementation of real estate strategies, and financial strategies and tactics ensuring integration with the goals and objectives of the University.
• Provide input on the development of the University of Toronto campus master plans, on all three campuses, in accordance with University’s overall campus and facilities planning goals and objectives.
• Oversee the development of short and long-term space capital plans to ensure they are consistent with and in support of academic and budgetary priorities and the overall strategic plan based on knowledge of current zoning and regulatory requirements.
• Provide strategic guidance to the management team to ensure effective administration and delivery of design and engineering and project management services, and consistent application of policies and procedures.
• Represent the UPDC portfolio at committee meetings (e.g., task force meetings, steering committees) and governing council meetings to provide input and expertise.
• Provide strategic leadership, direction and development expertise to project management group based on construction experience to ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget.
• Oversee, with Directors, the development of recommendations relating to design, construction and development on all three University campuses, based on research gathered from peer institutions and leading international research universities, for approval by the University (e.g., Design Review Committee).
• Lead meetings with Municipal Councilors and Planners on a frequent basis to keep them apprised of…