HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients, and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.
HOK is looking for a Director of Planning for Higher Education. This role involves uniting stakeholders into a cohesive team to help clients focus on what is possible. This collaborative approach is reflected in the many HOK-designed educational campuses, parks, neighborhoods, districts, and landscapes that meet the economic, social, environmental, and connectivity needs of their communities.
Successful candidates will have experience in designing and implementing planning activities for higher education clients, including campus master plans, space programming, utilization analyses, engagement and outreach strategies, and participatory planning tools.
Is an extended member of the Planning firm-wide leadership team and participates in defining the vision, strategy, and business plans for the higher education planning practice by fulfilling the following criteria:
Occasionally serves as principal-in-charge (PIC) or Project Manager for Planning projects. Understands the industry, client sensitivities, and market drivers. Participates with other Planning Regional Leaders and Directors of Planning in HOK firm-wide activities. Has strong communication skills (verbal and written) and is an effective collaborator and a good partner. Fosters a culture of external and internal client service.
Responsible for promoting and maintaining HOK’s design and planning reputation. Leads design teams by providing overall design direction to ensure high-quality design. Responsible for conceptual design excellence and initiates project design and idea discussions.
Interdisciplinary collaboration with other HOK SMEs and RBUs. Responsible for the successful execution of the defined practice goals and business plans. Monitors the status of Planning Higher Education projects. Regularly reports higher education project status to the Planning firm-wide leadership team. Assists in preparing project fee and workload projections. With the appointed PM, is responsible for higher education sector planning project performance. Monitors and maintains an appropriate level of chargeability.
Responsible for the development and execution of the Planning practice’s higher education marketing strategy. Identifies new business opportunities. Maintains and grows current client relationships and proactively seeks out new opportunities and prospects. Participates in higher education planning marketing and business development opportunities, proposals, interviews, and presentations. Develops and maintains positive industry relationships (i.e., with consultants, contractors, and jurisdictional/approval agencies) to support HOK’s standing in the marketplace. Assists in preparation of other related marketing, promotional, and press-related materials. Regularly participates in the higher education Planning industry activities by way of speaking, presenting, and/or writing to enhance the Planning practice’s thought leadership.
Serves as mentor/advisor to Planning related staff. Leads Planning input on relevant staff performance evaluations, including recommendations for bonus and promotion. Supports diversity initiatives to expose staff to influences which will stimulate creativity and innovation. Participates in recruiting of Planning related staff.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Some travel and overtime may be required. The job duties and requirements listed in this description may be altered or supplemented at any time at the sole discretion of HOK.
HOK is committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive benefits plan to meet their current and future needs. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage;