VP​/Global Workplace Design & Space Planning

We are seeking a VP/Global Workplace Design & Space Planning to join our Real Estate Services team.

We are seeking a VP/Global Workplace Design & Space Planning to join our Real Estate Services team. The Real Estate Services team is accountable for the firm’s comprehensive real estate strategy, execution, and operating standards across AB’s global real estate portfolio, spanning 53 locations in 27 countries. The team is responsible for delivering integrated real estate services, including strategic planning, transactions, lease administration, capital planning, workplace design and construction, and critical systems management, ensuring alignment with the firm’s business objectives and culture.

This team partners closely with senior leadership, Legal, Finance, Technology, and local management teams worldwide. The core mandate is to deliver employee-centric, high-quality, resilient and efficient workplaces that embody the firm’s culture and values, support business growth, and effectively manage risk and cost over the long term.

The VP/Global Workplace Design & Space Planning is a key role providing in-house office design-related services - continuous redevelopment and enhancement of workplace design strategy to adapt to evolving business requirements across AB’s global real estate portfolio. Working closely with internal stakeholders and external consultants, this role is responsible for creating innovative, high-quality, functional, and efficient workplace environments that reflect AB’s brand, culture, and business objectives while enhancing the employee experience and delivering long‑term value.

This role requires excellent personal hands‑on space planning, interior design and 3D computer graphic skills and experience. It supports the following functions:

• Real Estate Leasing
• Design & Construction / Project Management
• Furniture, Art and Planting Management
• Branding and Signage
• Technology
• Workplace Operations

• Help continuous redevelopment, enhancement and implementation of global workplace design strategy, standards, and design principles adapting to constantly evolving business changes.
• Ensure workplace designs promote collaboration, focus, flexibility, and productivity while complying with applicable local building codes, regulations, and sustainability standards. Balance global design consistency with the architectural character, culture, and historical context of each location.
• Support the procurement and oversight of architectural, interior design, branding, and signage consultants.
• Manage and mentor one in-house interior design/space planning direct report.
• Support the space programming process by partnering with business unit leadership, Technology, and Workplace Operations to develop comprehensive project briefs.
• In collaboration with Design & Construction / Project Management, lead the workplace design process—from in house test fit plans' development through project completion in collaboration with the project management team and external consultants, including architects, interior designers, MEP engineers, lighting, acoustical, food service, and branding/signage vendors.
• Support the Real Estate Leasing team by producing in-house multiple test-fit studies and conceptual layouts for prospective locations and renovation projects worldwide.
• Conduct space utilization analyses and develop recommendations to optimize workplace efficiency.
• Review contract documents and, when required, shop drawings to ensure compliance with the approved design intent.
• Partner with the Assets team (Furniture, Art, and Planting) in preparation of e‑design presentations for client review and approval.
• De…