Director of Operations

Director of Operations

Chicago, IL 60612

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way 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 find a place where they belong.

JLL is seeking an experienced Director of Operations to report directly to the Account Director. This critical leadership role will 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. The Director will own program strategy, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and team development while serving as JLL’s senior operational interface with client leadership.

• Lead and direct all building and systems operations through an integrated facilities management approach to ensure high infrastructure availability and client satisfaction.
• Oversee the operations leadership team—including Deputy Directors, Chief Engineers, and all maintenance departments—while supporting the Account Director’s overall vision.
• 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 a high‑performing operations team while fostering professional development.
• Develop and execute strategic plans that support client objectives with a focus on innovation and best practices.
• Drive organizational effectiveness through succession planning, talent development, and performance management.
• Maintain ultimate accountability for 24/7 operations, emergency response, and business continuity.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement across all trades and shifts.
• Serve as the primary operational contact for the client Director of Facilities.

• Ensure all maintenance operations comply with regulatory requirements from The Joint Commission, 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.

• Develop the annual operating budget and actively manage expenses to ensure compliance with client and contractual requirements.
• Support facility condition assessments and their integration into the capital infrastructure plan.
• Plan and coordinate major projects and service interruptions with clients and affected stakeholders.
• Manage MEP vendors and collaborate with sourcing and procurement on contract administration.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives while maintaining service excellence.

• 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.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, engineering technology, operations management, or a related field.
• Minimum 10–12 years of progressive facilities leadership experience and direct supervision experience in multi‑building operations and union environments.
• Minimum 7–10 years of healthcare facilities management experience with at least 5 years in director‑level or equivalent roles.
• Extensive knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression systems in commercial/critical facilities.
• Strong interpersonal skills with excellent oral and written communication abilities.
• Superior organizational skills and…