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Sub-Regional Lead Central Europe - Real Estate Management Services
Location: Zürich, Zug or Schaffhausen
Industry Focus: Life Sciences & Pharmaceutical
We are seeking an exceptional Sub-Regional Lead to spearhead the management of a high-complexity, multi-billion-euro Life Sciences account. This role demands a strategic leader capable of orchestrating integrated facilities management across specialized environments including GMP manufacturing facilities, R&D laboratories, cleanrooms, and corporate headquarters while ensuring zero business disruption during the transition period.
Strategic Responsibilities
- Lead the operational transition of a Tier 1 Life Sciences client from incumbent provider
- Orchestrate mobilization across 35+ sites spanning multiple countries across Europe
- Develop and execute comprehensive operational manuals to safeguard operational readiness
- Manage transition risks including regulatory compliance, business continuity, and stakeholder expectations
- Coordinate with global JLL teams and client leadership throughout transition timeline
Integrated Service Portfolio Management
- Oversee comprehensive FM service delivery including:
- Hard FM: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, building automation systems (BAS)
- Soft FM: Cleaning (including cleanroom protocols), security, catering, waste management
- Specialized Services: Calibration, qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), controlled environment maintenance
- Project Services: Minor works, space optimization, lab modifications
- Compliance Services: Environmental monitoring, documentation management, audit support
- Workplace Management with a focus on occupancy planning and Workplace Experience Enhancement
Regulatory & Compliance Excellence
- Ensure 100% compliance with pharmaceutical manufacturing standards (EU GMP, FDA CFR Part 211)
- Maintain controlled environment integrity across cleanrooms and manufacturing areas
- Coordinate validation activities and maintain change control documentation
- Interface with regulatory affairs teams and support inspection readiness
- Implement risk-based compliance monitoring and continuous improvement programs
Operational Excellence Requirements
As a general leader for your sub-region, together with your team, you need to ensure solid performance in the following areas:
Advanced Financial Management
- Manage complex P&L responsibility exceeding €25M annually
- Proactively manage profitability of your region and look for opportunities to grow the business further
- Drive annual budgeting process and forecasting from a business perspective
- Implement cost optimization initiatives while maintaining service quality and compliance
- Where needed, manage capital expenditure planning and lifecycle asset management strategies, as well as 3rd-party contractors cost and value add
Sophisticated Vendor Ecosystem Management
- Curate and manage best-in-class vendor network for specialized Life Sciences services
- Develop vendor qualification protocols aligned with pharmaceutical supply chain standards
- Implement advanced performance management including KPIs, SLAs, and continuous improvement metrics
- Coordinate vendor risk assessments and business continuity planning
- Lead strategic vendor partnerships and innovation initiatives
Technology Integration & Innovation
- Leverage advanced IWMS platforms for space management and preventive maintenance
- Implement IoT solutions for environmental monitoring and energy optimization
- Drive digitalization initiatives including mobile workforce management and real-time reporting
- Integrate with client's manufacturing execution systems (MES) and laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
- Lead sustainability initiatives and ESG reporting requirements
Leadership & Stakeholder Management
Matrix Organization Leadership
- Lead cross-functional teams including engineering, compliance, operations, and commercial professionals
- Manage indirect reports across multiple service lines and geographical locations
- Drive cultural transformation and change management during transition period
- Implement talent development programs and succession planning
- Foster collaboration across JLL's global Life Sciences centre of excellence network
Executive Stakeholder Engagement
- Interface directly with client C-suite executives and facility leadership
- Participate in quarterly business reviews and strategic planning sessions
- Lead crisis management and business continuity planning
- Manage relationships with regulatory bodies and third-party auditors
- Coordinate with legal teams on contract variations and commercial negotiations
Required Experience & Qualifications
Essential Background
- Minimum 10+ years in corporate real estate or facilities management with P&L responsibility >€25M
- Minimum 5+ years managing integrated FM services across multiple countries/regions
- Proven experience leading complex account transitions or large-scale mobilizations in regulated industries
- Demonstrated success managing matrix organizations with 50+ professionals (internal and external)
- Advanced degree in FM, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field
Life Sciences Industry Requirements
- Minimum 3+ years direct experience in pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device environments
- Deep understanding of GMP requirements and pharmaceutical manufacturing operations
- Experience with cleanroom operations, validation protocols, and change control processes
- Knowledge of regulatory frameworks (EMA, FDA, ICH guidelines)
- Familiarity with laboratory operations and R&D facility management
Advanced Competencies
- Strategic Leadership: Ability to develop long-term strategic plans and drive organizational transformation
- Complex Problem Solving: Proven ability to resolve multi-faceted challenges in high-stakes environments
- Commercial Acumen: Advanced understanding of contract structures, risk allocation, and value creation
- Digital Transformation: Experience implementing technology solutions and driving innovation
- Cultural Intelligence: Ability to operate effectively across diverse cultural and organizational contexts
Language & Mobility Requirements
- Business-fluent English (C1+ level)
- Additional European languages advantageous (German, French, Italian, Dutch)
- Willingness to travel 40-50% across European facilities
- Ability to relocate if required for account optimization
Success Metrics & KPIs
- Client satisfaction scores >95% throughout transition period
- Zero regulatory non-conformances or audit findings
- Financial performance within ±2% of budget targets
- Service level achievement >98% across all disciplines
- Successful completion of transition milestones within agreed timelines
- Team engagement and retention rates >90%