Exec Dir, Utilities P3 Partnerships

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a strategic Executive Director for Utilities P3 Partnership to oversee innovative utilities solutions. This role is crucial for enhancing operational excellence and fostering sustainable practices within the university's infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess over a decade of experience in utilities management and a strong background in project negotiation and leadership. Join a collaborative environment dedicated to serving the community and driving impactful change through effective utilities management and strategic partnerships.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of management experience in utilities and facilities.
• Proven success in leading teams and managing large projects.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Utilities P3 Project and enhance service delivery.
• Lead operational management of utilities and ensure compliance.

Skills

Management in utilities

Negotiation of energy partnerships

Leadership and team management

Knowledge of electrical systems

Data analysis

Lean principles

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management

Tools

Project management software

Data analytics tools

Job description

Job Summary

The University of Kentucky is seeking a strategic and experienced Executive Director for Utilities P3 Partnership. This high-impact role oversees the Utilities P3 Project, fostering sustainable solutions and operational excellence. Reporting to the Chief Facilities Officer and Chief Procurement Officer, this leader plays a pivotal part in fostering an innovative, efficient, and customer-centered utilities infrastructure in support of the university’s mission to serve students, faculty, staff, patients, and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

1. Executive Leadership & Strategic Planning: Act as a core leader within the Facilities Management Executive Team, overseeing the Utilities P3 Project, to support the University of Kentucky’s mission. Collaborate with university administration to enhance service delivery, supporting the university’s Strategic Plan and Utilities Master Plan.
2. Project & Contract Management: Collaborate closely with the Chief Facilities & Chief Procurement Officers to negotiate, design, build, and administer P3 contracts and agreements, ensuring compliance and optimization. Seek to expand partnerships in utilities and energy sectors. Serve as a liaison with campus and enterprise stakeholders and P3 partners, maintaining effective communication and relationships. Use staff to develop project planning aligned with the Campus Master Plan and Sustainability Master Plan.
3. Operational Oversight & Utilities Management: Lead all areas related to operating and maintaining utilities, including power utilities, grid integration, utility connections, and system reliability. Work with planning, design, engineering, maintenance, and construction teams to deliver projects aligned with sustainability goals.
4. Organizational Change and Development: Foster a culture of creativity, participative leadership, entrepreneurship, and mutual respect within Utilities & Energy Management. Prioritize customer service and develop tools to assess and improve service delivery for campus stakeholders.
5. Financial Stewardship & Cost Optimization: Maximize budget impact, evaluate in-house vs. contracted work, and apply Lean principles to reduce costs and improve efficiencies while maintaining service quality.
6. System Compatibility & Risk Management: Oversee system selection ensuring compatibility, considering maintenance costs and sustainability. Focus on risk reduction, compliance, and departmental policy enforcement.
7. Continuous Improvement & Data Analytics: Lead development of comprehensive data systems to support continuous improvement and strategic decisions. Drive efficiency, cost reduction, and a culture of innovation and collaboration.

This search is led by UK’s internal Executive Search Team. For more information, contact Mary Beth Bracken at 859-257-3348 or [e-mail].

Internal Employee Being Considered (IEBC)

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Driver’s License – Preferred

Over 10 years of progressively responsible management in utilities, energy, or facilities management, with experience in managing complex utility systems, P3 projects, and sustainable solutions. Ability to negotiate energy, utility, and infrastructure partnerships. Proven success in leading teams, managing large projects, and building relationships. Knowledge of utilities operational issues, especially in university or healthcare environments, is highly desirable.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes

Preferred Education/Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or related field preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 10 years in management, utilities, energy, or facilities management, with relevant project and negotiation experience.
• Technical Skills: Knowledge of electrical systems, grid management, microgrid technology, and energy equipment. Proficiency in project management, data analysis, Lean principles, and utility systems.
• Leadership & Interpersonal Skills: Successful leadership of teams and projects, excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Application Deadline

05/13/2025

Our University Community

We value the well-being of our employees and are committed to creating a healthy, safe, and inclusive environment. The University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug-Free campus. We encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and minorities to apply. Candidates may be subject to pre-employment screenings including background checks and drug tests.