Occupancy & Space Workstream Lead

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated in Saudi Arabia seeks an Occupancy and Workspace Workstream Lead to optimize the client’s real estate portfolio. You will drive occupancy planning, analyze space utilization data, and translate insights into strategic recommendations aligned with Vision 2030.

The role requires strong data management, cross-functional collaboration, and experience with IWMS/CAFM tools, Excel, and Power BI.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Architecture, Interior Design, Facilities Mgmt, Business Admin, Data Analytics, or related field.
• Advanced degree or professional certifications (LEED, IFMA, CoreNet Global) preferred.
• 5–7 years in occupancy planning, space management, or corporate real estate, with 2+ years in lead role.
• Experience in KSA or GCC region preferred.
• Proven track record managing multi-site portfolios.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Occupancy and Workspace Workstream for the client in KSA, establishing relationships with stakeholders.
• Gather, validate, and baseline occupancy and workspace data across the portfolio.
• Coordinate with technology teams on deployment of the MREF Platform Module for Occupancy & Space Management.
• Establish space budgets, stack plans, and test fits for office buildings.
• Support space planning reflecting local market conditions and trends.
• Collaborate with portfolio management, data analytics, and tech teams for integrated insights.
• Identify space opportunities and run scenario planning for optimization.
• Monitor occupancy and utilization metrics and report to client leadership.

Skills

Occupancy planning

Space management

Data analytics

Stakeholder mgmt

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Real Estate

LEED/IFMA/CoreNet

Tools

IWMS

Power BI

AutoCAD/Revit

Job description

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.

Occupancy and Workspace Workstream Lead – KSA

Position Overview

The Occupancy and Workspace Workstream Lead plays a critical role in optimizing the client's real estate portfolio across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This position is responsible for leading workplace and occupancy planning initiatives by analyzing space utilization data, occupancy trends, and planning scenarios to maximize operational efficiency and support the client's strategic real estate objectives. Working closely with cross-functional teams, this role translates complex data insights into actionable recommendations that align with the client's evolving workplace needs and Vision 2030 transformation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Workstream Leadership & Client Partnership

Lead the Occupancy and Workspace Workstream for the client's account in KSA, serving as the primary point of contact for all occupancy planning and space optimization matters. Develop and maintain strong relationships with client stakeholders to understand business requirements, growth plans, and workplace transformation goals aligned with Saudi Arabia's evolving business landscape.

Data Management & Baseline Establishment

Gather, validate, and establish comprehensive baseline occupancy and workspace data across the client's KSA office portfolio. Collate and record detailed occupancy metrics, space allocation data, and associated cost information for all office buildings. Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and compliance with local reporting requirements and international standards.

Technology Platform Coordination

Coordinate with the client and JLL Technology Team on the deployment and optimization of the MREF Platform Module for Occupancy & Space Management. Serve as the workstream liaison for system implementation, user training, and ongoing platform enhancements to ensure effective utilization of technology solutions.

Space Planning & Design Support

Establish and maintain space budgets, stack plans, and test fits for office buildings across the portfolio. Support space planning initiatives that reflect local market conditions, cultural workplace preferences, and emerging trends in KSA's commercial real estate sector. Ensure planning scenarios accommodate flexibility for future growth and organizational changes.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner effectively with portfolio management, data analytics, and technology teams to provide integrated insights that support informed space decision-making. Collaborate with workplace strategy, facility management, and project delivery teams to ensure seamless execution of occupancy planning initiatives.

Opportunity Identification & Scenario Planning

Proactively identify available space opportunities, consolidation potential, and optimization scenarios across the portfolio. Develop and evaluate multiple space planning scenarios that balance cost efficiency, employee experience, and operational requirements. Support business case development for space rationalization or expansion projects.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

Monitor occupancy levels, utilization trends, and space efficiency metrics on an ongoing basis. Develop regular reporting dashboards and presentations that communicate key insights to client leadership. Track performance against established benchmarks and industry standards relevant to the KSA market.

Data Analysis & Insights

Maintain, interpret, and analyze data related to employee locations, shared workspace utilization, hoteling arrangements, and space changes over time. Identify patterns, trends, and anomalies that inform strategic recommendations. Provide data-driven insights that support workplace transformation and real estate portfolio optimization.

Required Qualifications

• Education Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Architecture, Interior Design, Facilities Management, Business Administration, Data Analytics, or related field.
• Advanced degree or professional certifications (LEED, IFMA, CoreNet Global) preferred.
• Experience Minimum 5-7 years of progressive experience in occupancy planning, space management, workplace strategy, or corporate real estate, with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Experience working in or with organizations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or broader GCC region strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated track record of managing complex, multi-site portfolios.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in space management platforms and occupancy tools (IWMS systems, CAFM software, or similar).
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or other data analysis and visualization tools.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, or space planning software is advantageous.
• Familiarity with workplace analytics platforms and sensor-based utilization tracking systems.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is essential.
• Arabic language proficiency is highly preferred and considered a significant advantage for effective client communication and stakeholder engagement in the KSA market.

Knowledge & Competencies

• Strong understanding of corporate real estate principles, space planning standards, and workplace design concepts.
• Knowledge of occupancy metrics, utilization benchmarks, and industry best practices.
• Awareness of workplace trends, hybrid work models, and employee experience considerations.
• Familiarity with KSA labor regulations, commercial real estate market dynamics, and cultural workplace preferences is beneficial.

Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills

• Exceptional analytical capabilities with the ability to synthesize complex data sets into clear, actionable insights.
• Strong problem-solving skills and strategic thinking ability.
• Capacity to develop innovative solutions that balance competing priorities and constraints.

Communication & Stakeholder Management

• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Strong stakeholder management capabilities and experience working with senior client leadership.
• Proven ability to build consensus and influence decision-making through data-driven recommendations.

Project Management

• Solid project management skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously.
• Experience coordinating cross-functional teams and external vendors.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Cultural Awareness

• Understanding of and respect for Saudi Arabian business culture, workplace norms, and professional protocols.
• Ability to work effectively in a culturally diverse environment and adapt communication styles appropriately.

Location

Location Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)

Location: On-site – Riyadh, SAU

What JLL Offers

JLL is committed to developing and retaining top talent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We offer a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within a global organization.

Join a team that is shaping the future of workplace strategy in one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets, contributing to transformative projects aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

JLL is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background.