ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, CORPORATE PORTFOLIO (BUREAU OF ASSET MANAGEMENT) – SHAKMAN EXEMPT

Cook County • Chicago, IL

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About The Position

The Cook County Bureau of Asset Management is seeking an experienced Associate Director, Corporate Portfolio, responsible for supporting senior leadership in overseeing the County’s capital construction programs and project portfolio. The role assists in managing operational activities to ensure projects align with departmental goals and adhere to established standards. Key responsibilities include identifying and evaluating risks across portfolio assets, recommending mitigation strategies to protect long‑term portfolio health, and helping to develop policies and procedures that meet legal and regulatory requirements. The position also prepares financial reports and analytical summaries such as performance metrics, return on investment, and other key indicators, to inform strategic decision-making.
Cook County offers great benefits and the chance to participate in a strong tradition of public service. Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45%25 of Illinois’ population. Cook County Government provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region. These services range from health care to urban planning. Cook County is committed to empowering its employees to bring our constituents the best that public service has to offer.
Attention Applicants: Please note that as part of ongoing job architecture initiatives, the County is reviewing job titles and corresponding grades, which may be subject to change.
WHY PURSUE A CAREER WITH COOK COUNTY?
In addition to providing employees with a challenging, rewarding environment for career and personal growth, we are proud to also offer some of the best benefits in the public sphere, including:
Top Tier Medical Benefits: Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
Flexible Teleworking Options
Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)
Pension Plan
Financial Support Programs and Resources: Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
Health/Wellness Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.
SNAPSHOT OF COOK COUNTY
Serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs
2nd largest county in America
Larger than 27 states
Cook County employs over 22,000 employees who work in a variety of skilled jobs and trades.
Nearly 80%25 unionized workforce
15 unions represented
63 separate collective bargaining agreements
Highway – Cook County maintains almost 600 miles of roads and highways.
Land – Cook County assesses the value of more than 1.5 million parcels of taxable land and collects and distributes tax funds as a service for local government taxing bodies.
Safety – Cook County provides vital services to local government, from conducting elections in suburban areas to offering 911 services in unincorporated areas and municipalities.
LOCATION
Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, one of the most formidable business districts in the world, the area has an astounding number of cultural foundations, stunning parks such as Millennial Park and Maggie Daley Park, steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of shopping! In addition, Chicago is serviced by multiple bus and train lines for public transportation from the suburbs to the city, taxis are plentiful, public parking garages for motorists, and bicycle share rentals and local bike lanes for bicyclists.
Job Summary
Assist senior leadership with matters related to the management of County capital construction programs and projects. Assist with program and project operational matters to achieve the goals and objectives of the department. Identify and evaluate risks related to portfolio assets and projects, proposing mitigation strategies to minimize exposure and ensure long-term portfolio health. Assist in the development of policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards. Prepare financial reports and analysis for senior leadership, including performance metrics, return on investment, and other key indicators to inform decision-making.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree or higher and
• Four (4) years of experience in construction management, urban planning, real estate, or directly related experience or
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s Degree in Architecture, Construction Management, or Engineering.
• Six (6) years of experience in construction management, urban planning, real estate, or public administration.
• Four (4) years of management or supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of architectural and engineering principles, techniques, and planning practices as related to construction management, combined with expertise in addressing construction economics and their impact on project budgets.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills while engaging with the public, along with the ability to coordinate information promptly with relevant project stakeholders.
• Ability to provide strategic leadership, insight, support, and direction to support the unit’s mission and goals.
• Proficiency in negotiating professional services, fees, and change orders with consultants and contractors for capital construction projects.
• Ability to professionally convey the goals and objectives of capital projects, to internal and external stakeholders while representing the County with integrity in business operations.
• Ability to solve complex problems that have long-term impact on the unit and organization.
• Ability to implement the strategic vision of a department or organization-wide function.
• Ability to implement plans and objectives and oversee the efficiency and performance of specific processes and operations.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior leadership in overseeing various aspects of county capital construction programs and projects, while being able to identify key issues and challenges.
• Attend construction program and project meetings with or on behalf of senior leadership and acts as a liaison between senior leadership, internal departments, and external stakeholders, providing updates on department performance and key initiatives.
• Assist in overseeing the budget and resources, ensuring effective allocation and optimal utilization for maximum impact and efficiency.
• Monitor the performance portfolio assets, assessing profitability, value, and alignment with organizational priorities. Identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations for adjustments as needed.
• Oversee unit operating plans and practices, contribute to the development of new systems, and oversee their workflow and adherence to contract compliance.
• Analyze and assess capital construction program objectives and project progress, collect and evaluate program data and prepare recommendations and reports for senior leadership on schedule and budget-related planning challenges for both long-term and short-term goals.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Top Tier Medical Benefits: Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
• Flexible Teleworking Options
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)
• Pension Plan
• Financial Support Programs and Resources: Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
• Health/Wellness Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level