Director of Project Management

Ingenuity empowered by curiosity.

Who We Are

Ingenuity empowered by curiosity. Albert Kahn Associates is driven to question the status quo in search of creative and long-lasting design and engineering solutions that solve our client's challenges. We help them to do what they do even better. We engage our communities in the design of the built and natural environments to foster genuine belonging and leave a positive impact on our world. We improve life through design.

What We Are Looking For

Critical Thinkers. Creative Problem Solvers. Collaborative Teammates. Future Leaders.

Our Detroit office is seeking a Director of Project Management to lead our project management functions across the firm. This individual will be responsible for driving excellence in the delivery of building design projects within our industry, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and high-quality outcomes across all phases of project design execution.

This role will serve as a key member of firm leadership, partnering with Principals, technical leaders, and clients to strengthen project delivery processes, mentor project management staff, and support the firm's continued growth.

The ideal candidate is a strategic, experienced leader with expertise in AEC project delivery, strong operational and financial acumen, and a proven ability to lead teams and complex projects from concept through construction.

Why Join Us?

Diverse projects. Drive to Innovate. Collaborative team. Kahn Legacy. Employee Owned. Work-Life Balance.

Full-time positions offer competitive salary and benefits, 401K with employer match, discretionary bonuses, vacation and sick time, and a hybrid work arrangement.

Job Functions

Leadership and Strategy

• Lead and manage the firm's project management function, establishing best practices and standards across the department

• Develop and implement strategies to improve project delivery, efficiency, and profitability

• Partner with firm leadership to align project management processes with business goals and growth initiatives

• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to project delivery, financial performance, and client satisfaction

• Act as project manager on select projects

Project Oversight and Delivery Excellence

• Provide executive-level oversight of building design projects across the Albert Kahn portfolio

• Support project managers in managing scope, schedule, budget, and risk

• Ensure consistency in project delivery processes from kickoff to schematic design through construction administration and closeout

• Identify and resolve high-level project challenges and risks, including contractual obligations

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of project managers across the firm

• Create and implement robust training and professional development materials

• Establish clear expectations, performance standards, and accountability measures

• Support recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of project management staff

• Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture

Client and Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as a senior client interface on key projects and strategic accounts

• Strengthen client relationships and support business development efforts

• Collaborate with Principals and technical leaders to ensure client satisfaction and successful project outcomes

Process Improvement and Systems

• Evaluate and enhance project management tools, systems, and workflows

• Standardize reporting, documentation, and communication practices across the firm

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce risk

Financial and Operational Management

• Oversee project financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitability

• Support project teams in understanding construction costs, fee development, and contract management

• Ensure alignment between project execution and financial goals

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field

• 15+ years of experience in the AEC industry, with significant experience managing building design projects

• Proven leadership experience managing project managers or project management teams

• Demonstrated expertise in project delivery, including design, bidding, and construction administration phases

• Strong understanding of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and project profitability

• Experience with project management and financial systems such as Unanet, or similar platforms

• Proficiency in scheduling tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera, or equivalent

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results in a fast-paced environment

• High level of professionalism, integrity, and strategic thinking