Operations Director

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Operations Director - Critical Environments

Position Summary

Lead and manage all aspects of mission-critical data center operations including client service, team management, financial performance, and technical operations. Own client relationships and ensure service delivery meets performance standards while driving financial success of assigned portfolio in accordance with JLL's global data center service delivery model.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Maintenance Oversee daily operations, maintenance, and performance of critical infrastructure (UPS, generators, cooling) in leased data centers, utilizing Corrigo's work order management system to track preventive maintenance schedules, manage vendor relationships, and ensure optimal asset performance across JLL's global data center portfolio.

Availability & Incident Management

Maximize uptime and reduce high-impact incidents by leveraging JLL's operational playbooks and standardized escalation procedures. Lead Root Cause Analyses (RCA) for critical failures, documenting findings in Corrigo and sharing insights across JLL's data center network to prevent recurring issues and continuously improve reliability metrics. Effectively manage communications across regions during critical emergencies.

Client Management & Performance

Own operational client relationships and ensure total contract compliance with all performance specifications including quantitative cost savings and qualitative customer service requirements. Manage client reporting, maintain interface with Corporate Real Estate personnel, and ensure fixed, variable, and incentive compensation targets are achieved relative to performance plans and KPI objectives.

Compliance & Policy

Ensure strict adherence to JLL's data center operational standards, client SLAs, safety protocols, security requirements, and budget parameters. Maintain compliance with industry certifications and regulatory requirements while supporting JLL's commitment to delivering best-in-class critical facility management services. Ensure all properties operate according to local, state, national, and client-specific requirements.

Program & Project Management

Manage strategic programs supporting JLL's data center growth initiatives, including new facility delivery, technology implementations, and operational optimization projects. Lead compliance audits and verification processes, coordinating with JLL's global engineering teams and utilizing established project management methodologies from operational playbooks. Provide oversight for critical infrastructure project development, commissioning, and close-out processes.

Collaboration & Relationship Building

Build and maintain strong relationships with landlord partners, JLL engineering groups, regional operations teams, and client stakeholders. Actively participate in JLL's knowledge sharing networks, contributing to best practice development and supporting the continuous improvement of global data center service delivery model.

Team Leadership & Development

Lead and develop assigned teams, ensuring service delivery within established standards. Manage succession planning, onboarding processes, and effectively utilize suppliers and account team resources for maintenance and repair services supporting critical environments.

Financial Management

Provide input to annual financial plans and manage capital expenditures within approved budgets while identifying cost optimization and energy efficiency initiatives supporting JLL's sustainability commitments. Monitor performance metrics and report cost savings and value-add contributions to leadership.

Emergency Preparedness

Develop and maintain comprehensive emergency response plans aligned with JLL's crisis management protocols, ensuring rapid response capabilities and business continuity for critical client operations.

Required Experience

• Extensive experience in mission-critical environments managing UPS systems, backup generators, and precision HVAC
• Strong technical background in mechanical and electrical systems with data center applications
• Proven track record in large-scale IT infrastructure and data center operations management
• Experience with facilities management platforms (Corrigo preferred) and CMMS systems
• 5+ years operational experience with responsibility for leading teams in data center environments

Skills & Focus Areas

• Cost optimization and energy efficiency initiatives supporting JLL's sustainability commitments
• Data-driven operational analysis using monitoring systems for Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), temperature, humidity, and other critical metrics
• Leadership capabilities with experience mentoring technical teams and fostering collaborative relationships across JLL's integrated service delivery model
• Strong client relationship management skills aligned with JLL's client-centric approach to facilities management

Technical Competencies

• Fundamental skills in critical systems such as emergency/standby generators, automatic transfer switches, UPS systems, power distribution systems, UPS batteries
• Technical proficiency in Building Management Systems, Life Safety Systems, CMMS, Microsoft Office Suite
• Extensive electrical, mechanical & plumbing knowledge of commercial facilities with strong background in critical data center operations

Leadership & Communication

• Demonstrated leadership skills in managing people and customers with strong oral and written communication, negotiation and analytical skills
• Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities with excellent judgment, problem-solving and crisis management skills
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Proven record of providing excellent internal and external customer service

This role requires a dynamic leader who can balance technical expertise with strategic business acumen while maintaining JLL's commitment to delivering best-in-class critical facility management services.

This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Location:

On-site –Abilene, TX

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements.  We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care

• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary 

• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

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Accepting applications on an ongoing basis until candidate identified.