In mid-November, University President Robert Bruininks announced a University-wide hiring pause. The hiring pause is part of a deliberate strategy to control costs, maximize existing resources and keep the University strong in light of the state’s $5.2 billion budget crisis.
Despite the pause, the President said that a position crucial to University operations could be filled provided that the position is carefully reviewed and approved by the appropriate Vice President. Without approval, the hire would be delayed and other strategies considered in budget decisions.
Over the past four weeks, Facilities Management has looked carefully at all of its open positions in the organization, evaluating whether to fill, to hold, or to eliminate them. These open positions are part of the FM transformation or are open due to employee turnover.
After a thorough review done in partnership with University Services Human Resources, we submitted a request to Vice President Kathleen O’Brien to eliminate some, hold others, and to fill a set of key positions in Energy Management, Maintenance and other areas. The request is consistent with our budget and recommended service plans and focuses on meeting our energy conservation and sustainability goals; maintaining basic operations and maintenance; and achieving baseline management requirements. Vice President O’Brien reviewed and approved the request and we have been given authorization to proceed. Postings should begin to appear in the coming weeks.
I know the state and university budget issues make this an unsettling time for everyone. We will know more details in the coming weeks and I’ll share any additional information with you as quickly as possible.
Keep up the good work.
Mike
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