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Executive Director, Highlander Union Building

University of California, Riverside

Riverside, CA · Posted October 13, 2026

More in California job market · Education & EdTech · Executive Leadership jobs

About the job

Riverside, California, Reporting to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement, the Executive Director of the Highlander Union Building is responsible for the management of the Highlander Union Building, a 150,000 square foot facility that includes retail, dining, offices, outdoor locations and event spaces managed in association with a student-led governing board that serves in an advisory capacity. This position is also responsible for the maintenance and custodial needs of Costo Hall and the event management needs of the Student Success Center. The Executive Director will lead a team responsible for facilities management, event scheduling, programming (including late night events), major events, student free speech response and campus-wide activities. As part of their duties, the Executive Director will be responsible for capital planning projects, financial operations, development of policies and procedures, assessment of services, annual reporting and student engagement. This position functions with a large amount of autonomy and is expected to lead initiatives to increase student engagement, including collaboration with the Student Recreation Center to align management and administrative functions with best practices. The incumbent is a crucial part of the student engagement experience at UCR and is a key collaborator across campus. Educational Requirements Required - Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training Preferred - Master's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training Experience Requirements Required - 8-13 years of related experience. Preferred - Previous supervisory/managerial experience. Preferred - Understanding of student development theory and application to student engagement. Preferred - Experience working with multiple constituencies, including service providers, senior leadership, students and community. Preferred - Relevant experience associated with managing facilities or programs associated with similar student-focused facilities in a university environment. Preferred - Knowledge of best practices and industry standards associated with facilities management. Special Conditions Required - Exercise the utmost discretion in managing sensitive information learned in the course of performing their duties. Sensitive information includes but is not limited to employee and student records, health and patient records, financial data, strategic plans, proprietary information, and any other sensitive or non-public information learned during the course and scope of employment. Understands that sensitive information should be shared on a limited basis and actively takes steps to limit access to sensitive information to individuals who have legitimate business need to know. Ensure that sensitive information is properly safeguarded. Follow all organizational policies and laws on data protection and privacy. This includes secure handling of physical and digital records and proper usage of IT systems to prevent data leaks. The unauthorized or improper disclosure of confidential work-related information obtained from any source on any work-related matter is a violation of these expectations. Minimum Requirements Excellent ability to establish metrics for department and employee goals. Excellent project management skills, including the capability of managing capital projects. Excellent skills to work collaboratively and act persuasively in sensitive situations; skills in conflict management techniques. Thorough knowledge of financial analysis and reporting techniques; human resources and risk management planning; accounting and payroll. Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively lead, motivate and influence others and to develop and maintain high standards of customer service. Very strong ability to quickly evaluate complex issues and identify multiple options for resolution. Preferred Qualifications Thorough knowledge of common organization-specific and other computer application programs. Understanding of student developmental theory, including engagement models and student development. Ability to work in a fast paced environment and respond quickly to emerging needs. Excellent ability to manage student fees, including coordinating with student-led governing board, transparency and thoughtful engagement with broader student community. Strong ability to understand and utilize policies/procedures when evaluating events and other issues. High level of political acumen and understanding of how to navigate complex institutional environments. Knowledgeable regarding best practices in facilities management, including deferred maintenance, renovations and expansion.

The salary range for this position is $130,500.00 - $256,100.00 annually. However, the expected pay scale for this position is up to $155,000.00 annually. We base salary offers on a variety of considerations, such as education, licensure and certifications, experience, and other business and organizational needs.