Director of Real Estate, Design & Construction

Director of Real Estate, Design & Construction

Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP is seeking a Director of Real Estate, Design & Construction to join its team. The Director of Real Estate, Design & Construction is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing all aspects of the firm’s real estate portfolio, including lease negotiations, lease administration, design, and construction management. This role partners closely with real estate brokers, landlords, property management, architects, general contractors, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure optimal utilization and enhancement of firm facilities nationwide.

The Director will travel extensively (at least 50%-75% of the time) to manage projects and relationships across multiple office locations. Ultimately, as Director you will provide the leadership to the team enabling us to deliver workplaces where people love to work.

• Lead and execute space selection, lease negotiations with brokers and tenant representatives, ensuring optimal space fit and favorable terms aligning with firm objectives.
• Oversee lease portfolio compliance with brokerage agreements, lease agreements, managing financial obligations like rent and CAM/Opex charges, and tracking critical dates to control costs and mitigate risks.
• Manage leasehold improvements, including budgeting, scheduling, quality control, and delivery.
• Coordinate monthly rent payments to landlords and annual operating expense reconciliation.
• Direct space planning initiatives to maximize efficiency, functionality, ergonomics and personnel experience.
• Manage the design and furnishing process for new offices, renovations, and expansions, collaborating with architects, designers, and vendors.
• Lead bidding, interviewing and selection process for General Contractors and Subcontractors.
• Negotiate FF&E contracts to achieve cost savings/rebate opportunities and manage vendor relationships.
• Provide leadership for construction projects from inception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and regulatory requirements, including RFPs and utilization of AIA contracts.
• Coordinate with local offices on preventive maintenance and repairs to office space (including electrical fixtures and plumbing), furniture, and appliances.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with external partners, including landlords, property managers, contractors and other outside vendors.
• Prepare and analyze complex financial models, budgets, and project reports using advanced Excel skills.
• Oversee submission, tracking, and approval of all construction, repair and maintenance invoices.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, codes, and firm policies related to real estate and construction.
• Continue development and improvement of firm design, construction and furniture standards to enable efficient, timely, and quality solutions.
• Provide regular updates and strategic recommendations to firm leadership.

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Architecture, Construction Management, Business Administration, or related field;
  Master’s degree or PMP certification preferred.
• 10-15 years of progressive experience in real estate, design, and construction management, preferably within professional services environments.
• Expertise in lease negotiations, space planning, design, and construction oversight, including strong understanding of construction methods, materials, codes and regulations.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, communication and presentation skills (written and verbal) to tactfully communicate with vendors and firm personnel and management.
• Exceptional Excel skills, including financial modeling, data analysis, and reporting.
• Outstanding project management, communication, and negotiation abilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel 50%-75% of the time.
• Proven track record of managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast‑paced, multi‑location environment.
• Experience with AmLaw 100 or similar professional services firms.
• Familiarity with legal industry or professional services standards and requirements for real estate, design and construction.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills.

The national salary range is approximately $115,000‑$250,000. Starting salary may be higher or lower depending on internal equity and years of experience.

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401(k) Plan
• Paid Days Off/Vacation
• Firm Paid Holidays