Director of Space Planning

Job Description

Director of Space Planning

Boston, MA (On-Site) | Full-Time, Senior Level | $138,000 – $170,000 / year

A leading healthcare organization in Boston is seeking an experienced Director of Space Planning to oversee campus-wide space utilization, design standards, and capital project support. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for managing strategic space planning efforts in a complex, multi-building healthcare environment.

About the Role

Reporting to the Senior Director of Real Estate and Planning, the Director of Space Planning leads all aspects of space allocation, project design, campus aesthetics, and workspace standards. This role requires extensive collaboration across construction, real estate, environmental services, infection control, and executive leadership. You will lead a multidisciplinary team and manage space-related decision-making across one of Boston’s most prominent healthcare institutions.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Leadership

Develop and manage the organization’s comprehensive space planning strategy

Set and enforce design standards for interiors, furniture, signage, wayfinding, and aesthetics

Oversee move coordination, capital allocation for space-related projects, and future growth planning

Collaborate with executive leadership to support capital budgeting and facilities decision-making

Facilities & Space Management

Maintain the organization’s AutoCAD-based space inventory system and ensure data accuracy for reporting and reimbursement

Lead efforts to optimize space utilization across clinical, research, and administrative areas

Implement workplace trends and best practices in space optimization and flexible workspace design

Coordinate with consultants, engineers, and contractors on construction and renovation projects

Project Oversight

Manage project scopes, timelines, and budgets to support renovations, reconfigurations, and expansions

Serve as the internal liaison for construction, design, and facilities teams to ensure projects align with strategic goals

Provide detailed cost estimates, feasibility studies, and financial projections for space planning initiatives

Review architectural and design documentation to ensure alignment with code and internal standards

Team Leadership

Supervise managers, project coordinators, and consultants engaged in space planning and project execution

Establish departmental goals, KPIs, and performance benchmarks

Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the Real Estate & Facilities team

Requirements

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Architecture, Interior Design, Facilities Management , or a related field

10+ years of progressive project and design management experience in a mid to large healthcare organization

Demonstrated experience managing large teams and complex organizations through intermediate supervisors

Preferred Skills & Knowledge

Strong understanding of MA state building codes , ADA / accessibility standards, and Joint Commission requirements

Ability to interpret construction documents, MEP schematics , and regulatory design requirements

Familiarity with AutoCAD, CAFM / IWMS systems, and capital project reporting tools

Knowledge of building systems : HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection

Experience with budget development, forecasting , and capital project oversight

Excellent interpersonal, presentation, and cross-departmental collaboration skills

Requirements

10+ years of progressive project and design management experience in a mid to large healthcare organization Demonstrated experience managing large teams and complex organizations through intermediate supervisors