Q&A with Victor Thomas

Director of Capital Projects & Space Planning

Tell us the story of how you came to work at NYU Law. Were you always in your current position? 
I started my employment at NYU in January 2014. Most of my career had been spent managing operations for investment banking firms like Lehman Brothers and Barclays Capital, so academia was certainly a cultural change. Interestingly enough, I was originally hired by NYU Facilities and Construction Management to manage the School of Law portfolio. However, leadership had an immediate need and asked if I would oversee the freshman dorms instead.

During those first few years, I got the opportunity to interact extensively with key groups across campus while managing a myriad of projects. Sidestein Market at Weinstein Hall was one of my very first projects at NYU. After I completed the gut renovation of Hayden Hall, now Lipton Hall, with [director of Capital Maintenance] Harris Reife, Lillian Zalta [then assistant dean for Operations, Housing & Administrative Services] brought me on board as the facility manager for the Law School academic buildings. I guess that you can say that I came full circle. 

Change is inevitable, and I’ve had the good fortune of collaborating with some incredible people here at the Law School, first with Lillian as the facilities manager and now with Nancy Chau as director of capital projects and space planning. 

What’s a typical day for you like?
My day typically starts with intentions, then usually switches to a more reality-based posture. As a general rule, anything that can happen will happen, so be prepared to pivot. 

What’s the most challenging thing about what you do? And what’s the most rewarding?
Accepting that no amount of planning can guarantee success. Be accountable, and success usually follows. 

What do you wish you’d known about the Law School on your first day of working here?
I wish I’d known how important the Law School is within the university ecosystem. Having managed other portfolios at NYU, I can say with certainty that Law School is the tip of the spear. 

What is your favorite spot on campus, and why?
Probably the sitting area in front of Furman. I was on campus throughout the Covid lockdown, and my office didn’t have a window. That space essentially became my office and a peaceful place to collect my thoughts. Also, it allows me to see most of our vendors coming and going. I can get answers in real time.