Samuel Robertson named new Facilities Management assistant VP

Samuel Robertson has been hired as Arizona State University’s assistant vice president of Facilities Management. Robertson will begin his role on Sept. 23, 2024, and report to Tim Smith, Facilities Development and Management interim vice president.

“Samuel’s extensive background in facilities management will help deliver operational efficiency, strategic planning and high-quality customer service for our community,” Smith said. “Facilities Development and Management is delighted to welcome Samuel to ASU. We look forward to enhancing our sustainable campus environment under his leadership.”

Robertson will oversee nearly 500 employees responsible for the daily operations of ASU’s built environment, which includes over 2,000 acres of land and 1,200 buildings across multiple locations.

Robertson comes to ASU from the University of Richmond, where he was executive director of Facility Operations. He spearheaded transformative initiatives across the campus including a steam plant renovation, an improved utility processing strategy and the implementation of smart-metering technology.

Robertson’s 17-year career in the higher-education sector has led to pivotal leadership roles at Virginia Commonwealth University, Indiana University and the University of Utah. His experience includes strategic energy management, asset preservation and environmentally sustainable daily operations.

Robertson earned a bachelor’s degree in facility management from Brigham Young University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in business administration from VCU. He holds certifications in real estate, facility management and safety preparedness.