Executive Director - Real Estate & Facilities

Managing Associate at Helbling, a ZRG company

SITUATION OVERVIEW: ZRG has been engaged to recruit an Executive Director – Real Estate & Facilities for Cirrus Aircraft.

ABOUT COMPANY:
Cirrus Aircraft was founded in 1984 by brothers Alan and Dale Klapmeier. The company began developing the VK-30 kit plane in their family’s barn in Baraboo, Wisconsin, and first flew it in 1988. As demand grew, Cirrus expanded operations to Duluth, Minnesota, and later Grand Forks, North Dakota. In the late 1990s and early 2000s the company shifted from kit planes to certified light aircraft, launching the SR20 in 1998 and the SR22 in 2000.

These models redefined general aviation with all-composite construction, glass cockpits, and the inclusion of CAPS – a standard ballistic parachute system that has saved hundreds of lives. In 2016, Cirrus entered the jet market with the Vision SF50 (Vision Jet), the first certified personal jet from a piston‑aircraft maker. The company has expanded its facilities, including a major Engineering and Innovation Center in Duluth and Vision Centers in Knoxville, TN.

Cirrus has achieved record deliveries, becoming the world’s largest producer of piston‑powered aircraft and leading in sustainability by exploring unleaded fuel options and using sustainable aviation fuel in the Vision Jet’s engine.

Client:
Cirrus Aircraft
Role:
Executive Director – Real Estate & Facilities
Business Unit:
Facilities

Location:

Duluth, MN

Reports To:

Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Website:

• Manage facility operations including budget management and facility planning.
• Direct the design, planning, construction, maintenance, and alteration of facilities.
• Plan, budget, and schedule facility modifications, including cost estimates and contracts.
• Develop long‑range planning initiatives to support future needs and growth.
• Lead and engage building and mechanical maintenance teams for equipment installation and repair.
• Manage vendor and building maintenance contractors, negotiating contracts and ensuring service delivery.
• Inspect plant and evaluate the use of space and facilities, managing routine maintenance.
• Analyze HVAC systems, computer network wiring, lighting, and other factors.
• Develop long‑range plans, conceptual designs, and documentation for campus facilities.
• Effectively communicate conceptual matters and ideas with a wide audience.
• Demonstrate a proven ability to manage across the organization.
• Inspect construction and installation progress to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Oversee coordination of building space allocation and communication services.
• Help the team strategize and think through master facility planning, capital allocation, and site selection.
• Ensure all safety standards and policies are met, conducting regular observations for compliance.

• Bachelor’s degree and 12 years of experience in facilities management or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of recent experience in leadership of people and projects.

• Strong computer skills for project management and scheduling within Asset Essential Facilities software.
• Ability to demonstrate sound judgment and practical communication skills.
• Ability to manage stress and complete multiple projects simultaneously.
• General knowledge of HVAC, VRF, Chiller, and manufacturing equipment maintenance.
• Knowledge of industrial building operations.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for assessing buildings and production equipment.

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Short‑term disability insurance
• Long‑term disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• 401K retirement savings plan
• Voluntary vision insurance
• Employee Referral Incentive Program
• Vacation and holiday pay
• Employee discounts at the company store and with partners.

Duluth, MN is a lakeside city on Lake Superior with a rich industrial heritage that has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. It offers a mix of outdoor recreation, community events, and a dynamic culinary scene.