Working for the University of Alberta
The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is teeming with change makers, community builders, and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to more than 40,000 students in 200+ undergraduate and 500+ graduate programs, over 13,000 faculty and staff, 260,000 alumni worldwide and have been recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers for over a decade.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross section of people—from our students and stakeholders, to our renowned researchers and innovators who are quite literally curing diseases, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger, and more just.
Location - North campus
Department summary
The Department of Integrated Planning, Development and Partnerships stewards and oversees the strategic planning, use and development of the University of Alberta’s land and building assets. It is lead by the Associate Vice President, and is part of the portfolio of Facilities & Operations.
Position summary
Reporting to the Director, Strategic Infrastructure, Planning and Partnerships, the Head, Real Estate is the University's most senior real estate professional accountable for providing asset management expertise and displaying leadership with respect to all aspects of real estate as it pertains to the teaching, research and commercial activities of the University of Alberta. These activities include negotiation of leases and other forms of space-use or space-sharing agreements both on and off of campus. The Head, Real Estate provides advice to the Director and Associate Vice President with respect to "best-use" of its real estate assets; provides continuous analysis of trends in the market; liaises with other real estate and development professionals; provides advice on the sub-division of property and plans for real estate asset acquisition and disposition.
The Head, Real Estate is part of a team of professionals responsible for planning in support of the University of Alberta's Long Range Development Plan and remains informed about development issues and legislation as they concern the university's neighbours and all levels of government.
The Head, Real Estate consults with stakeholder units with respect to Business Case development for strategic planning and capital initiatives including working with Financial Services on various financing arrangements as required. This position will provide ongoing advice to the Department and Portfolio leaders as it relates to its dealings with the University of Alberta Properties Trust Inc.
Duties
Accountable for the regular review of university real estate assets thereby ensuring that the university is receiving maximum benefit over time.
Acquisition of land or buildings via purchase, lease or gift including developing the scope of required due diligence, conducts necessary financial analysis, retains consultants as required and makes recommendations to senior administration.
Accountable for disposition (sale, lease, joint venture) of university land and buildings. They will undertake real estate market analysis and coordinate the procurement process and negotiate and prepare agreements as required.
Accountable for coordinating the university's land, building and space development requirements.
Negotiates and prepares all agreements concerning University land such as rights of way, easements, encroachments, rights of entry, mineral agreements, construction agreements and any other agreements encumbering title to University land.
Head, Real Estate will work with the Vice President (Research) and Vice President (Facilities and Operations) Offices, Faculties and other stakeholder groups with respect to understanding and managing the university's leased space requirements on campus.
Accountable for overseeing "cross-lease" agreements with Alberta Health Services and Students Union, and various negotiations with other entities in shared buildings on and off campus.
Negotiates and prepares agreements and, if necessary, consults with the University's General Counsel or external solicitors.
Clearly communicates strategic objectives to own staff. Works with staff to define operational plans that align with these objectives. Takes action to avoid imminent problems or to capitalize on upcoming opportunities.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree
Progressive experience in the assigned area of commercial real estate.