At Universal Creative, we design, develop and deliver the most compelling entertainment experiences imaginable to drive growth for Universal Parks & Resorts worldwide. Our innovative attractions, immersive theme parks and world-class resorts fuse art and technology to create new standards in the themed entertainment industry.

Our Team Members are the driving force behind Universal Creative. With their diverse skills and forward-thinking ideas, our team pushes us beyond the boundaries of what’s possible to achieve the extraordinary. Together, we’re creating a Universe of fun, always ensuring the next thing we do is better than the last thing we did.

JOB SUMMARY

The Vice President, Project Controls plays a critical role in the successful delivery of world-class experiences that ignite the thrill of being fully alive. Oversees global project controls for Universal Creative, a large theme park and resort development Company. Leads the team responsible for data gathering, management and analytical processes used to report, predict, understand, and influence the time and cost outcomes of global projects. This includes the development of, evolution of, and training on consistent processes, tools, documentation, and best practices for portfolio project management, planning and scheduling, cost estimating, risk management strategies, document control and contracts interface to ensure all projects are on time, on budget, and on brand. The role collaborates with and supports global portfolio and project leaders and encompasses people, processes and tools used to plan, manage, and mitigate cost and schedule risk events that may impact a project. Supports the organization’s mission and vision through the project controls position ensuring that projects are appropriately planned, supported, and reported on.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversees project controls for global projects ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures. Develops, implements, and maintains company project controls standards, guidelines, and tools that can be efficiently used on all projects. Leads the development and growth of organizational capability and competency in the project management practice of Project Controls.  Establishes scheduling and estimating standards to be implemented consistently across all Universal Creative projects.
• Establishes and implements project reporting over the project lifecycle with a focus on key performance indicators that allow for early detection and mitigation of project risks. Evolves and implements a formalized project gating process that memorializes project goals (cost, schedule, scope, brand), execution strategy and project risks/mitigations at key phases of the project. Ensures alignment with Universal Creative and Universal Destinations & Experiences key stakeholders. Conducts audits of the project controls system to ensure procedures are implemented and followed and the project reporting system accurately reflects the status of the project.
• Establishes and implements formalized change management processes designed to assess cost and schedule impacts of scope change and to obtain executive approval. Incorporates lessons learned into company procedures and tools. Provides support for estimating and vendor, General Contractor, and sub-trade proposals to include bid schedules and project execution plans.
• Leads (directly/indirectly), mentors and develops Project Controls resources.
• Develops standardized organizational/staffing structures in partnership with Human Resources and functional and portfolio leaders to ensure consistency.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Expert in estimating and cost control development.
• Ability to negotiate.
• Ability to develop trends and forecast costs.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret construction drawings/specifications, technical drawings/specifications, common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, schedules and legal documents.
• Ability to write updates, reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to effectively present information to senior executive leadership, public groups, and/or boards of directors.
• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry as well as basic accounting principles.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and influence teams and stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficient in project management software, tools, and methodologies, such as PMWeb, Primavera, Agile, and Scrum.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Passionate and knowledgeable about the themed entertainment industry and committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Global travel may be required.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Project Management, Finance or Accounting required. Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Project Management, Finance or Accounting preferred. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification preferred.

EXPERIENCE

15+ years of total project controls and successful project management experience required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

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