Wake Forest University · 8 hours ago
Space Planning Manager; Facilities, Real Estate, and Planning
Wake Forest University is seeking a Space Planning Manager to manage and drive the operational framework for space strategy. The role involves overseeing space management for all university locations, serving as the primary liaison for space-related requests, and leading the full lifecycle of space management.
EducationHigher EducationUniversities
Responsibilities
Serve as the primary point of contact for Wake Forest University space requests
Manage space request intake and maintain ownership of the space request log
Conduct stakeholder outreach and document evaluations of space needs. Proactively engage and consult with stakeholders to conduct in-depth assessments of functional space requirements given departmental program information
Engage with space governance committees to ensure and promote compliance with campus space standards
Collect and maintain space inventory data, ensuring its accuracy and integrity
Perform needs analysis to support the appropriate allocation of university space resources
Support periodic audits of space information systems through field and site inspections to verify use and occupancy of campus space and to ensure data integrity
Update and maintain the Space Strategies team's web presence
Lead the development and maintenance of space-occupancy software and drive ongoing improvements
Lead the development, University-wide implementation, and continuous development of space standards and guidelines
Function as a primary resource for campus constituents, providing authoritative interpretations and responses regarding space data and policies
Prepare communication materials that clearly articulate space management processes, recommendations, and scenarios for various audiences
Collaborate with department representatives to fully understand and document their programmatic space needs and requirements
Conduct studies and needs assessments to determine space requirements for institutional adaptation, such as new programs, enrollment changes, and departmental realignments
Prepare and evaluate alternative space scenarios to help optimize the university's resources
Collaborate with project managers, architects, and facilities staff to ensure space plans are executed accurately
Provide data and analytical support to senior leaders and committees to drive and inform space-related decision-making
Lead post-occupancy evaluations to verify space effectiveness, compliance, and data accuracy
Partner with Facilities teams to support campus departmental moves and other logistical aspects of the space plan execution
Partner with the Buildings, Space, and Archives team on effective signage solutions
Partner with Facilities, Real Estate, and Planning groups to ensure institutional space strategies are incorporated and aligned with capital and renewal projects
Initiate, establish, and foster communication and teamwork by maintaining a positive, cooperative, productive work atmosphere in the University while maintaining effective working relationships within a diverse population and various cultural backgrounds
Consult with campus customers on an ongoing basis to identify needs and explore opportunities for operational improvement. Respond to inquiries and concerns from faculty, staff, students, administrators, and the public regarding services, and autonomously resolve as appropriate
Interface with other campus departments that use space systems to store space utilization or location information, and coordinate, synchronize, and work toward standardizing the data across systems
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in a related field plus a minimum of four (4) years of professional-level experience in campus planning, space management, real estate, project management, facility data management, facilities assessment, space utilization analysis, or related fields, with at least two (2) years demonstrating project or program ownership. Equivalent experience is acceptable for the role instead of a degree
Adept with multiple space-related software systems and the ability to navigate related systems of varying complexity
Demonstrates ability to be a self-starting catalyst for change, expertly advocating for the organization and leading constructive dialogue, expressing disagreement tactfully
Skills to seek out information from internal and external stakeholders to ensure forward momentum of projects, priorities, and initiatives
Understands and actively supports organizational mission and goals; aligns own actions and priorities to achieve long-term organizational objectives
Understands formal and informal organizational structures and constraints. Recognizes and addresses underlying organizational issues
Utilizes innovative strategies to set and achieve challenging goals, measure performance, and improve outcomes
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), web-based software applications, and familiarity with AI software
Ability to travel to on and off-campus locations for business activities
Valid driver's license with good driving record; must be insurable
Regular exposure to physical demands and hazards associated with active construction sites
Preferred
Knowledge of higher education space standards (e.g., APPA, SCUP guidelines)
Experience with AutoCAD, Archibus, and familiarity with GIS mapping software
Company
Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University is a private, independent, nonprofit, non-sectarian, coeducational research university.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$63.9MKey Investors
Lilly EndowmentAmeriCorps Public AlliesNational Institutes of Health
2025-07-10Grant· $30M
2024-10-10Grant· $0.2M
2023-02-23Grant· $3M
Leadership Team
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