Sr. Director Renovations & Major Projects

The Opportunity

The Senior Director of Renovations & Major Projects is responsible for strategic leadership, planning, design, budgeting, and delivery of major interior renovations, and exterior building improvements. The role ensures projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and in alignment with corporate standards, operational requirements, and long-term asset management objectives.

Reporting to the Vise President of Property Management, the position oversees the Interior Design Department, providing direction on design standards, brand consistency, and project execution while fostering collaboration between design, operations, and construction teams.

In addition, the Senior Director has responsibility for the review and approval of commercial tenant fit-up projects, including cell tower and telecommunications installations, ensuring compliance with lease agreements, regulatory requirements, building standards, and organizational objectives.

As a key leader, the Senior Director works collaboratively with Operations, Asset Management, Finance, Procurement, Legal, and external partners to enhance asset value, manage risk, and support the organization’s strategic growth initiatives.

Key Accountabilities

Project Leadership

• Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of major accretive and defensive projects from concept through completion.
• Define project scope, develop budgets, and ensure alignment with organizational goals and design standards.
• Oversee project timelines, procurement, and on-site execution to ensure quality, efficiency, and safety.
• Collaborate with Operations, Regional Project Managers, and Interior Designers to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Track and report on project progress, proactively identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
• In partnership with sales and marketing to drive installation of site level signage for existing assets and new acquisitions.  

Financial and Budget Management

• Scope and cost projects accurately, ensuring financial accountability and value-based decision-making.
• Monitor and manage project budgets, expenditures, and change orders.
• Forecast and address budget variances, ensuring accurate documentation and financial reporting.
• Contributes to annual capital planning and budgeting processes.
• Contributes to the planning and execution of accretive redesign of key assets within the organization.

Design Standards and Vendor Management

• Lead the development and maintenance of FFE standards to ensure consistency, efficiency, and cost control across projects.
• Establish and maintain relationships with vendors, contractors, and consultants across regions.
• Partner with Supply Chain Management to maintain approved vendor lists and ensure competitive sourcing.
• Oversee material selection, tender evaluation, and purchase order execution.
• Develop and maintain standards as they relate to process, project design, tendering cost tracking and delivery.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure all projects comply with building codes, health and safety regulations, and municipal or ministry requirements.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to secure required approvals and documentation.
• Maintain awareness of industry standards and best practices to ensure compliance and quality.

People Leadership

• Collaborate and develop synergies with the Design Team to achieve project and departmental goals.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee departmental planning, workflow, and resource allocation to optimize productivity.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, health and safety standards, and project governance processes.

Qualifications

Education:

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in Construction Architecture, Project Management, or a related field.
• Professional designation or equivalent experience preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in design, project management, or construction coordination.
• Experience leading multiple concurrent design projects within a large, multi-site organization.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, schedules, vendors, and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience with seniors housing or hospitality environments considered an asset.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong project management, budgeting, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office and design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, or equivalent).
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to manage conflict, resolve issues, and maintain positive relationships.
• Strong decision-making, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Fluent in English; bilingualism in French is an asset.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Effort

Requires frequent attention to detailed project documentation, design specifications, and cost data. Balances multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Regular use of computer systems and project management tools; occasional site visits requiring walking, standing, and visual inspections.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a hybrid environment combining office and site-based settings. Periodic travel to properties, vendor locations, and project sites is required. The role involves managing competing priorities, tight deadlines, and coordination among multiple stakeholders.

At Chartwell, we’re all about Making People’s Lives BETTER: the lives of our residents and their families, and the lives of our employees. Join an exceptional group of diverse, inspiring, and caring people who are empowered to provide personalized, human experiences for our residents and staff through the connections they make every day within our communities.

Chartwell’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity is a commitment to hiring people whose skills and abilities contribute the most to the success of the organization and who reflect the communities in which we live and work. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from a wide range of qualified candidates, including people with disabilities. If you have questions or require assistance with the application process, please email accessibility@chartwell.com or call 1-888-663-6448.

Chartwell may use artificial intelligence to assist in screening and assessing applicants for this position.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.