Director of Operations

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.  

Our people at JLL 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 find 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.   

What this job involves: JLL is seeking an experienced Director of Operations, reporting directly to the Account Director, to lead the engineering and operations team responsible for all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, and general maintenance across a large urban medical center campus and Central Energy Plant. In this critical leadership role, you will own program strategy, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and team development while serving as JLL's senior operational interface with client leadership.  You'll create an environment that supports developing high-performing professionals while ensuring compliance with The Joint Commission (TJC), CMS, IDPH, and other regulatory agencies that reflect JLL's commitment to shaping the future of real estate for a better world through sustainable and efficient healthcare facilities supporting critical patient care environments.

What your day-to-day will look like:

Operations Leadership and Management:

• Lead and direct all building and systems operations through integrated facilities management approach to ensure high infrastructure availability and client satisfaction

• Oversee operations leadership team including Deputy Director(s), Chief Engineers, and all maintenance departments while supporting the Account Director’s overall vision for the organization

• Establish operational standards, policies, and procedures across the entire campus

• Collaborate with leadership (both JLL and Client) to coordinate integration with project management, compliance, and workplace experience teams

• Provide coaching and mentoring to build high-performing operations team while fostering professional development

• Develop and execute strategic plans that support client objectives with focus on innovation and best practices

• Drive organizational effectiveness through succession planning, talent development, and performance management

• Ultimate accountability for 24/7 operations, emergency response, and business continuity

• Foster culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement across all trades and shifts

• Serve as primary operational contact for client Director of Facilities

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensure all maintenance operations comply with regulatory requirements from The Joint Commission (TJC), CMS, IDPH, and other agencies

• Support TJC, CMS, and IDPH compliance inspections, testing, maintenance, and repairs

• Oversee CMMS implementation and management across campus operations

• Ensure consistent maintenance management practices and achievement of Key Performance Indicators

• Oversee reporting of key metrics and maintain comprehensive documentation systems

Financial Management and Strategic Planning:

• Develop annual operating budget and actively manage expenses to ensure compliance with client and contractual requirements

• Support Facility Condition Assessments and their integration into Capital infrastructure plan

• Plan and coordinate major projects and service interruptions with clients and affected stakeholders

• Manage MEP vendors and collaborate with Sourcing & Procurement on contract administration

• Drive cost optimization initiatives while maintaining service excellence

Safety and Process Improvement:

• Proactively support safety culture development and implementation of incident-free workplace practices

• Ensure understanding of safety and environmental concerns related to building systems and equipment

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational efficiency enhancements

• Maintain expertise in periodic maintenance planning and administration

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering technology, operations management, or related field

• Minimum 10-12 years of progressive facilities leadership experience and direct supervision experience in multi-building operations and Union environment