Executive Director of Energy Services

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States

Updated: 2 months ago
Location: Chapel Hill, NORTH CAROLINA
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: ; ;

Posting Information
Posting Information


Department ES Admin-227010
Career Area Other
Posting Open Date 09/05/2023
Application Deadline
Open Until Filled Yes
Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)
Working Title Executive Director of Energy Services
Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty
Position Number 01000773
Vacancy ID NF0007317
Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent
FTE 1
Hours per week 40
Position Location North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
Proposed Start Date 12/01/2023

Position Information


Be a Tar Heel!
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Energy Services Department consists of five units: (1) Cogeneration Systems, which generates and distributes steam and generates electricity; (2) Electric Distribution Systems, which is responsible for the distribution of electrical power; (3) Chilled Water Systems, which produces and distributes chilled water throughout the campus; (4) Water/Sewer, Wastewater and Stormwater, which works with a local provider for use and conservation of water as well as management of non-potable water and manages campus stormwater; (5) Business Operations, which provides strategic, financial and capital planning, budgeting, information technology support, program/project management, utility billings, and customer service. Together these five units provide safe, reliable, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective utility services for the University Campus and UNC Hospitals.
Position Summary
The Executive Director of Energy Services provides management and leadership for Energy Services. The primary purpose of Energy Services is the production, delivery, and management of the University’s supply-side thermal energy (steam, chilled water) utilities and electricity, the management of non-potable water and stormwater systems, and management of the relationship with local utility providers, Duke Energy, Dominion Energy, and Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA). Energy Services is comprised the following units: Cogeneration Systems, Chilled Water Systems, Electric Distribution Systems, Water/Sewer (Wastewater), Non-Potable Water Systems, Stormwater Systems, and Business Operations. The annual receipts supported budget for Energy Services exceeds $160 million per year. Energy Services also manages a significant capital utility infrastructure program. This position reports to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Real Estate and Campus Enterprises.
Primary Duties Include:
(1) Planning and Policy: The Executive Director provides leadership for Energy Services in developing and implementing strategic planning and goal-setting processes that support the vision of Finance and Operations and the University. They ensure that Energy Services’ capital plan is periodically reviewed and approved. They develop and report on measures that track progress toward goals.
(2) Financial: The Executive Director manages the financial performance to meet operating, capital, and debt requirements while maintaining the lowest possible costs. They oversee the annual budgeting and rate-setting process. They ensure that financial systems and controls are in place, followed, and well documented.
(3) Operations: The Executive Director oversees the utility managers in the daily operations and employee management of Energy Services units to ensure that all service delivery areas are continuously improved to increase reliability and efficiency to the highest levels and contain cost. They monitor and evaluate the overall performance of each unit. They ensure that energy systems meet environmental and safety standards consistent with the University’s goals and leadership position.
(4) Human Resources: The Executive Director encourages the development of all employees to their maximum potential through leadership, coaching, support, and training. 
(5) External Relationships: The Executive Director builds effective formal and informal communication channels with customers and other university departments that are integral to the success of Energy Services such as: Facilities Planning and Design, Facilities Engineering and Construction, Sustainable Carolina, Energy Management, and Environmental Health and Safety. They build effective working relationships nationally with colleagues of other research universities with significant energy production capacity. They stay abreast of changes in the industry through active participation in energy utility groups and conferences.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent) with three years or greater of related professional experience; for candidates demonstrating comparable professional backgrounds, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and five years or greater of relevant experience in substitution.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience, including senior level management experience, in an energy utility or large research university district energy system or other large energy system, such as a military base.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Experience in a research university or similar setting with multiple utilities employing the district energy concept. This position involves regular contact with high-level administration, University counsel, construction and facility planning staff, faculty, students, municipal, state and local officials, state and federal regulatory agencies, private property owners and the university community.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.
Special Instructions
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is conducting a national search with the assistance of Helbling (www.helblingsearch.com ,) an executive search firm specializing in areas of facilities management, construction, engineering, and real estate development.
Please apply by emailing a resume and cover letter to either of the Helbling contacts below. You may also provide nominations or ask any questions.
Joe Wargo, Managing Director
E: [email protected]
O: (724) 935-7500 x107
C: (412) 398-3762
Rick Nawoczynski, Senior Associate
E: [email protected]
O: (724) 935-7500 x112
C: (724) 462-5393
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/264489

Posting Contact Information


Department Contact Name and Title
Department Contact Telephone or Email
Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to [email protected]
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

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