Position Title: Director of Project Management – Higher Education
Location: Boston Area (On-site & Campus-Based)

Overview:
We are seeking a seasoned Director of Project Management with a strong track record in leading complex projects within higher education environments. This role involves direct oversight of major initiatives at a prestigious Cambridge-based university, including graduate school facilities. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker, skilled communicator, and proven leader with deep expertise in project execution, client engagement, and team development.

Key Focus Areas:

• Higher Education Experience Required: Must have demonstrated success managing projects and teams in higher education settings, including high-level presentations to boards or executive committees for project approvals.

• Client Engagement: Build consensus through clear, objective problem-solving and provide clients with timely, accurate data to drive informed decisions.

• On-Site Presence Required: This is not a remote position. Regular travel to campus and office-based work is essential.

• Process & Protocol Adherence: Understand and navigate centralized institutional processes while effectively advancing projects.

• Communication & Leadership: Strong ability to communicate clearly, set expectations, and foster long-term client relationships.

• Multi-Sector Oversight: While focused on university projects, the role may extend to clients in other market sectors.

Responsibilities:

• Lead all phases of project delivery: planning, design, permitting, construction, occupancy, and closeout.

• Train, mentor, and oversee project management staff, ensuring alignment with CSL standards and values.

• Directly accountable for project outcomes, including budget, quality, schedule, and client satisfaction.

• Actively monitor staff performance, time allocation, and utilization to ensure optimal productivity.

• Participate in proposal development and client engagement for new business opportunities.

• Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess project and staff performance.

• Lead effective, collaborative teams that align with client goals and CSL’s mission.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing consistent updates and fostering a high-quality experience.

• Develop and track detailed project schedules and budgets, identifying and mitigating risks early.

• Prepare client presentations and coordinate communication across all stakeholders.

• Lead contract negotiations and manage vendor and consultant relationships.

• Support CSL’s growth strategy through client engagement, upselling, and expanding business opportunities.

• Motivate internal and external teams with proactive leadership and transparent communication.

• Represent CSL at meetings and industry events as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in project management, preferably with a focus on higher education.

• Proven success in leading teams and managing client relationships across market sectors.

• Strong background in budgeting, scheduling, and construction methods.

• Skilled in architectural plan review and knowledgeable in permitting processes.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office and industry-standard project management software.

• Ability to remain composed and solution-focused in high-pressure environments.

• CORI and SORI compliance as required by clients.

This is a leadership opportunity for a dynamic project management professional ready to make an impact within a mission-driven, fast-paced, and collaborative environment.