Project Execution Lead
Position Overview
The PDS Execution Lead serves as the strategic leader and owner of project delivery excellence within Project & Development Services (PDS) on the program. This role combines strategic business leadership with operational oversight, driving consistent high-quality project execution while developing talent and growing the business.
Job Summary/Goals
This role reports to the Managing Program Director and serves as the primary strategic driver of PDS delivery excellence across the region. The PDS Regional Lead is responsible for developing and executing regional strategy, managing regional financial performance, building and leading high-performing teams, and ensuring seamless client service delivery across a diverse portfolio of projects.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Business Growth
Develop and execute comprehensive execution strategy aligned with PDS business objectives and OnePDS goals
Serve as strategic advisor to clients, providing thought leadership on project delivery optimization, cost efficiency, and process innovation
Drive consistent application of PDS 5-Phase Process, methodologies, and governance frameworks across all regional projects
Partner across Regional Leads and other services to ensure integrated delivery excellence
Operational Excellence & Performance Management
Ensure adherence to established KPIs and reporting requirements across all service lines
Work with the established COE to continuously assess and optimize delivery processes to eliminate waste and drive efficiency
Work with the established COE to analyze regional performance data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities
Foster accountability for adherence to project controls, budget management, and schedule performance across all teams
Ensure construction readiness, quality assurance, and successful project closeout across the regional portfolio
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Build, develop, and retain a high-performing team of Region Leads, Project Managers, Development Managers, Construction Managers, and support staff
Attract top talent and support organizational goals of creating diverse teams at every level
Identify career growth plans for each team member and create development strategies to achieve those plans
Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback to direct reports and broader team members
Drive a culture of accountability, measuring team efficiency and delivering value through ongoing data collection and metric reporting
Manage out low performance through strategic resourcing, timely feedback, and decisive action when necessary
Support educational and training opportunities that enable professional growth for team members
Client Relationship & Service Delivery
Serve as senior point of contact for key client relationships
Maintain high levels of transparency and trust through proactive communication and value-driven reporting
Navigate difficult conversations and manage fiduciary responsibilities for both JLL and clients
Ensure seamless execution of account expectations by coordinating cross-functional teams and service providers
Drive integration and communication amongst all service lines to create successful project execution
Experience Required
10+ years of direct experience in real estate/retail/QSR project management, construction management, or development management
5+ years of proven leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary teams across large geographic area (preferred continental US)
Demonstrated success managing P&L and achieving business growth targets
Extensive experience with corporate real estate/retail/QSR, commercial construction, or development projects
Strong working knowledge of project controls, financial reporting, budgeting, scheduling, and capital planning
Preferred
Experience leading teams within a third-party service provider model
Background in both new construction and renovation/reinvestment projects
Experience with contract management, procurement, and vendor relationship management
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to develop and execute business strategy, aligning regional operations with enterprise objectives
Leadership: Demonstrated ability to inspire, influence, and lead diverse teams across multiple locations
Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of cost control, and financial performance metrics
Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with ability to present to executive-level stakeholders
Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions
Process Improvement: Experience with change management and driving continuous improvement with regional teams
Stakeholder Management: Ability to manage complex relationships with clients, internal teams, contractors, and third-party partners
Technical Knowledge: Strong working knowledge of architectural drawings, construction methods, and building systems
Technology Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in project management tools (Smartsheet, MS Project, PlanGrid, TRIRIGA, or similar platforms)
Leadership Competencies
Business First: Demonstrates commercial awareness and makes decisions that balance client needs with JLL profitability
Drive Change: Champions innovation, challenges status quo, and leads organizational transformation initiatives
Help Others: Invests in team development, removes barriers, and creates opportunities for others to succeed
Inspire Others: Creates compelling vision, generates enthusiasm, and motivates teams to achieve excellence
Get It Done: Delivers results through effective execution, accountability, and follow-through
Think Big: Anticipates future needs, imagines possibilities, and develops forward-looking strategies
Key Performance Indicators
Project delivery KPIs (schedule adherence, budget performance, quality metrics)
Client satisfaction scores and retention rates
Team utilization rates and resource optimization
New business development and pipeline growth
Team member engagement, retention, and development progress
Travel Requirements
Travel expectations: 30-40% to support site visits, client meetings, and team development