Jason Russell
BSc, CET, PMP, Senior Manager (Director 1) Project Management Office
Wetaskiwin,AB
Summary
Dynamic Senior Manager with a proven track record at the large and complex public organizations as well as private in private industry, excelling in capital project delivery and lean collaborative organizational delivery. Expert in progressive and innovative ways to delivery capital portfolios, successfully leading teams to deliver over 100 projects annually while enhancing productivity and stakeholder relationships. Committed to talent development and continuous improvement.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
1
1
Language
Work History
Senior Manager (Director 1) Project Mgmt. Office
University Of Alberta: Infrastructure Development
02.2022 - Current
- Position is technically a "Director 1" position, but due to reporting structure policy cannot be titled a Director position as it reports to a "Director 3".
- Implemented and developed operational standards, policies and procedures.
- Led a diverse technical team of 10 direct reports managing approximately 100 projects annually with expenditures of $100M-$200M
- Provided strong leadership to enhance team productivity and morale.
- Developed and implemented infrastructure programs aligned with the university's strategic vision and goals
- Established and maintained productive relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials and industry partners
- Prepared quarterly reports on capital projects, ensuring alignment with scope, budget, schedule, and risk management
- Contributed to the development of rolling 3-year infrastructure maintenance renewal plans and annual capital plans
- Managed contract negotiations and procurement processes for operational and capital programs
- Implemented comprehensive risk mitigation strategies, including health and safety protocols and financial risk management
- Oversaw project delivery strategies, including cost planning, schedules, and phasing for projects exceeding $500M in value
- Developed and maintained a PMO Best Practice Manual, ensuring staff adherence and continuous improvement
- Established succession planning and leadership development programs for a sustainable organizational structure
Project Manager, PMO
University of Alberta: Project Management Office
09.2019 - 02.2022
- Extensive experience in strategic planning, implementation, and process management for large-scale capital and renovation projects
- Proven track record of developing comprehensive project charters, implementation plans, and risk management strategies
- Expert in budget development, cost estimation, and financial management for multi-million dollar projects
- Strong leadership skills in overseeing project teams, including consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and communicate effectively with senior leadership
- In-depth knowledge of procurement strategies, contract management, and vendor selection processes
- Expertise in project control methodologies, including schedule management, quality assurance, and risk mitigation
- Proficient in developing and maintaining project reporting systems for high-level decision-makers and government entities
- Thorough understanding of building systems, construction processes, and relevant codes and regulations
- Successful track record of delivering projects on time, within budget, and meeting all quality and safety standards
Senior Project Coordinator (Civil)
Voice Construction
07.2013 - 08.2019
- Developed comprehensive business cases and feasibility studies to support project intake, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
- Directed major construction projects by liaising with owners, consulting engineers, and subcontractors, fostering collaboration to deliver high-quality outcomes within budget and schedule.
- Oversaw project planning and execution, including scheduling, cost tracking, and quality assurance, while managing client expectations to ensure satisfaction.
- Provided safety leadership by implementing robust safety programs, conducting on-site safety meetings, and monitoring compliance to maintain a safe working environment.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, consultants, architects, and subcontractors to drive project success and ensure seamless communication across all stakeholders.
Job Captain (Architectural and Prime)
HFKS Architects
06.2010 - 06.2013
- Led multi-disciplinary project teams in the execution of complex architectural projects, ensuring seamless coordination between design, engineering, and construction phases
- Oversaw quality control processes and maintained rigorous adherence to design standards, building codes, and client specifications across multiple high-profile projects
- Mentored and developed junior staff members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within the architectural team
- Administered contracts for compliance to design criteria, codes, specifications, and industry best practice
- Served as a key liaison between Architects, senior management, clients, and project stakeholders, effectively managing expectations and ensuring client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle
Education
Master of Science - Civil & Environmental Engineering, Construction
University of Alberta, Faculty of Engineering
Edmonton 05.2001 -
Bachelor of Science - Architectural Engineering Technology
Bluefield State University
Bluefield, WV, USA 05.2001 -
Associate of Science - Architectural Engineering Technology
Bluefield State University
Bluefield, WV, USA 05.2001 -
Skills
- Civil Construction Expertise: Strong background in civil construction
- Project Management: Experience managing multi-million dollar projects, and programs ideally
- Budgeting and Financial Management: Ability to prepare and manage capital and ops budgets
- Strategic Planning: Capability to contribute to long-term infrastructure plans
- Team Leadership: Experience in managing staff and fostering a professional culture
- Stakeholder Management: Experienced in empathetic and relational Stakeholder Mgmt
- Public Speaking: Ability to present complex information to large and polarized audiences
- Safety Standards: Knowledge of occupational health and safety regulations
- Grant Writing: Experience in securing funding opportunities for capital projects
- Data Analysis: Ability to collect and analyze data for infrastructure capital planning
- Innovative Thinking: Capacity to research and implement new technologies and techniques
Certification
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Timeline
Senior Manager (Director 1) Project Mgmt. Office
University Of Alberta: Infrastructure Development
02.2022 - Current
Project Manager, PMO
University of Alberta: Project Management Office
09.2019 - 02.2022
Project Management Professional (PMP)
01-2017
Certified Engineering Technologist (CET)
06-2015
Senior Project Coordinator (Civil)
Voice Construction
07.2013 - 08.2019
Job Captain (Architectural and Prime)
HFKS Architects
06.2010 - 06.2013
Master of Science - Civil & Environmental Engineering, Construction
University of Alberta, Faculty of Engineering
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Science - Architectural Engineering Technology
Bluefield State University
05.2001 -
Associate of Science - Architectural Engineering Technology
Bluefield State University
05.2001 -
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