Director, 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.

The Director, Operations serves as a business partner and leader to the local Leasing Advisory business in JLL's Chicago corporate office. The position will partner closely with the local Broker Lead, with specific oversight for Brokerage operations. We are seeking a candidate with proven ability fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, developing high performing teams, and driving change and desired outcomes.

The role will drive the development and execution of annual business plans and will be the main contact for Finance, Human Resources, Research, Marketing and Information Services, enabling programs that improve productivity and expand capacity at all levels in the market. The role provides a unique opportunity with exposure to all aspects of the business in a fast‑paced environment. Reports to the Head of Operations, Central Region.

• Serve as strategic partner to local broker lead(s) and key operating partner to all corporate functions and platform partners.
• Oversee local operations managers, sales coordinators, analysts, and transaction managers.
• Drive operational excellence through clear policies, procedures, and processes.
• Plan and execute market strategy planning sessions to establish annual business priorities.
• Drive accountability and execution of business line strategies.
• Provide input on budget with process improvement recommendations.
• Approve expense reports and monitor T&E policy adherence.
• Proactively track key performance indicators and ensure metrics are met or exceeded.
• Partner with Finance on quarterly financial/operating reviews.
• Develop and motivate high‑performing operations teams.
• Manage day‑to‑day activities for local operations managers and oversee the management of sales coordinators, analysts, and transaction managers.
• Lead talent management, including performance reviews, conflict resolution, and development.
• Manage annual compensation planning for the market.
• Evaluate support team structure strategically and make recommendations.
• Partner with broker leads on recruitment.
• Work with Regional Leads and Legal on broker separations.
• Work with HR and operations managers for hiring and onboarding.
• Coordinate business line/producer team meetings.
• Assist with inbound business tracking.
• Provide data analysis for production tracking and pursuits.
• Coordinate real estate licensing, training, and compliance.
• Execute culture and client events in the local market.
• Partner with committee leads and function groups for fluid coordination.
• Collaborate with marketing to drive clear communication strategy within market.
• Serve as liaison for local BRGs.

• Required:
• 10+ years of prior management experience and prior business operations experience—experience in the commercial real estate industry is a plus.
• Strong background and work experience in Finance, P&L/budget oversight.
• Demonstrated leadership ability with a collaborative management style.
• Critical thinker with high emotional intelligence and strong conflict management ability.
• Strong business acumen to understand and provide context for decisions; ability to influence and challenge decisions as appropriate with understanding of P&L.
• Proven experience developing high‑performance teams with high employee engagement and effective delegation.
• Excellent project management ability; solution oriented, organized and resourceful.
• Demonstrated commitment to high professional ethical standards.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced sales environment.
• Travel required (approximately 10‑25%).
• Preferred:
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or…