R+T Park is a key priority for the growth of the University as world-class Innovation District. We’re seeking a new Manager for the Park, a role that is integral in developing and managing stakeholder relationships through business retention and expansion, stakeholder management, tenant relations, and marketing and promotional activities. The role works in partnership with the Director to strategically attract new tenants, enhance tenant retention and expansion, and cultivate mutually beneficial relationships between developers, government, tenants, and the University of Waterloo.
Works in partnership with the Director in attracting new development interest by highlighting the value of locating and developing in proximity to the University
Work collaboratively with developers and tenant companies to identify opportunities for expansion and growth within the University’s ecosystem
Cultivate strong professional relationships with tenants, developers, local government, and the community, serving as a trusted liaison between key park stakeholders and University administration
Work closely with internal stakeholders to understand University priorities and strategies and cultivate opportunities for tenant attraction and engagement that are strategically aligned
Community Management
Build and maintain professional relationships with tenants to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed promptly and effectively
Foster a sense of community and belonging among tenants through regular communication and engagement initiatives
Develop and implement a comprehensive events calendar aimed at fostering connections between tenants and with the University, including community events, sports leagues, and charitable initiatives
Oversee the coordination and management of the Research +Technology Park Community Impact Fund held at the Waterloo Region Community Foundation
Independently handle tenant inquiries, concerns, and disputes, demonstrating sound judgment and discretion in decision-making
Marketing and Business Development
Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of social and community events, ensuring they align with the University’s objectives and values
Develop opportunities to engage prospective tenants, the University, and the broader community in events to highlight Research +Technology Park as a desirable location
Conducting market research to identify emerging trends, competitive benchmarks, and potential growth opportunities to help foster business development within the real estate arena
Develop and maintain an engaging digital media presence to promote community events, highlight tenant achievements, and showcase the University’s amenities
Create compelling content across various digital media platforms to drive engagement and increase visibility within the community
Strategic Planning
Work with the Director to develop a new strategic plan for Research +Technology Park future development
Work with the Director to coordinate and engage with the Research + Technology Park Strategic Advisory Council
Support the Director, the Real Estate Advisory Group, in collaboration with other stakeholders across the University in long term strategic planning for campus lands and the integration of Research + Technology Park into such strategies to support the goals laid out in the Guidance Statement for the Development of UW Lands
Explore opportunities to support the University’s goals in sustainability and decarbonization through Research + Technology Park development and business growth
Financial Management
Supports the Director, Real Estate and Research +Technology Park in managing and overseeing the Research and Technology Park Office operational budget and monitors allocations to make recommendations to work processes and/or resource allocation to meet defined budgets
Supports the Director to ensure the day-to-day financial activities of the office are carried out according to best practices and comply with University policy and procedures
Maintains internal control, monitors all accounts, and investigates over expenditures or irregularities
Reconciles monthly accounts including P-card
Providing regular financial reports to management for transparency and accountability
Maintaining accurate records of rent payments, expenses, invoices, and other financial documents for audit purposes
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Business, Planning, Economic Development, or related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Proven experience in community management, event planning, and tenant relations within a university or similar environment
5 – 7 years’ experience in providing administrative, business process and financial assistance to a senior role of a similar institution or corporation
Must have strong relationships established within the community or experience developing them
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain professional relationships
Ability to rapidly build and manage to build the real estate portfolio
Strong organizational and analytical skills in the gathering and manipulation of data
Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with a keen attention to detail
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively
Demonstrated ability to make independent decisions and exercise sound judgment
Experience in digital media management and content creation is highly desirable
An understanding of community relations best practices and event management
Strong planning and organizational skills
Basic photography and graphic design an asset
The role involves commitment to sometimes participate in evening and/or weekend events