Job Description

JLL supports the Whole You, personally and professionally.



Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology to our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people in our industry; and we support them through professional growth, flexibility, and personalized benefits to manage life in and outside of work. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades, and technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, we empower you to shape a brighter way forward so you can thrive professionally and personally.



JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world-class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to finding a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.



Senior Director of Project Operations, Design & Construction - EMEA

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



What We Offer

Opportunity to work with a prestigious global financial services client, influencing their real estate project delivery across EMEA

Career development within JLL's extensive global network

Collaborative, inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives

Competitive compensation package including performance-based incentives

Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, retirement plans, and wellbeing programs

Continuous learning and development opportunities



Join our team at JLL and embark on an inspiring, innovative, and optimistic journey toward success in shaping the future of real estate across EMEA!

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all of the requirements below. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!



Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:



JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health.



About JLL -



We're JLL--a leading professional services and investment management firm specializing in real estate. We have operations in over 80 countries and a workforce of over 102,000 individuals around the world who help real estate owners, occupiers and investors achieve their business ambitions. As a global Fortune 500 company, we also have an inherent responsibility to drive sustainability and corporate social responsibility. That's why we're committed to our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world. We're using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people, and our communities.



Our core values of teamwork, ethics and excellence are also fundamental to everything we do and we're honored to be recognized with awards for our success by organizations both globally and locally.



Creating a diverse and inclusive culture where we all feel welcomed, valued and empowered to achieve our full potential is important to who we are today and where we're headed in the future. And we know that unique backgrounds, experiences and perspectives help us think bigger, spark innovation and succeed together.