EMEA Operations and Governance Lead at JLL

Job Overview

• As the Senior Director of Project Operations for Design & Construction in EMEA, you will play a vital role overseeing construction project operations, processes, tools, and controls to ensure efficient execution and delivery of projects across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) for our strategic financial services client account. Working within our integrated account delivery team, you will ensure operational excellence while maintaining alignment with both JLL's and JPMC's standards and objectives. This role combines operational expertise with construction knowledge to optimise workflows, implement effective controls, and drive continuous improvement across project operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of Project Coordinators across EMEA, providing mentorship, guidance, goals, and support to foster professional growth and development
• Manage resource allocation and optimise workforce deployment across regional projects
• Oversee project controls including cost and change management, schedule adherence, risk mitigation, data quality/integrity and compliance with client processes and controls
• Develop, implement, and maintain operational processes and procedures to standardise construction activities across multiple projects and regions within EMEA
• Develop comprehensive risk management strategies while ensuring project compliance with EU regulations and local regulatory requirements to minimise operational exposure
• Identify operational bottlenecks and partner with clients to develop solutions to streamline processes
• Drive innovative ways of working, constantly seeking new approaches and technologies to enhance project management processes and outcomes
• Act as the primary point of escalation for operational issues, providing swift resolution to maintain project momentum and client satisfaction
• Collaborate closely with the Account Director and client stakeholders to understand business needs and adapt operational approaches accordingly
• Coordinate with project teams and vendors across different countries to resolve operational challenges and maintain project momentum
• Conduct regular compliance audits and risk assessments across the project portfolio to proactively address potential issues
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, understanding their goals and objectives within diverse EMEA markets
• Provide expert knowledge and guidance on client processes, tools, and technologies to support effective Project Team implementation and daily operations
• Coordinate comprehensive new hire onboarding, ensuring timely provisioning of systems access, technology, and equipment while facilitating thorough training
• Implement best practices and innovative solutions that enhance operational delivery
• Provide regular operational performance updates to internal and client leadership teams
• Champion JLL's values and culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and belonging

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., construction management, engineering, architecture, finance, business)
• 15+ years of experience in construction operations management within EMEA markets
• Experience developing and improving operational processes and workflows
• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams across multiple countries and cultures
• Proficient in project management methodologies and tools, with a demonstrated ability to drive process improvements
• Strong financial acumen and experience in construction project budgets and financial reporting
• Excellent client management skills, with the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on delivering innovative solutions
• Fluent in English, with additional European language skills highly valued

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certification in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2, IPMA) or equivalent
• LEED, BREEAM or other sustainability certifications
• Six Sigma or other process improvement certifications
• Demonstrated experience in change management and driving innovation
• Experience within financial services sector in EMEA
• Strong understanding of construction processes, methodologies, and industry best practices across EMEA markets
• Proficiency in project management software and tools common to the European market

Workplace Requirements

• Flexibility to work across multiple time zones within the EMEA region
• Periodic travel may be required, coordinated with the employees’ schedule and planned to accommodate personal commitments and maintain work-life balance.
• Hybrid working model with in-office presence required at 4 days per week
• May require occasional evening hours to address operational/project issues across different time zones