Chief Engineering Manager

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way . Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies 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. What This Role Involves The Chief Engineering Manager (CEM) will serve as the senior engineering leader for JLL’s Work Dynamics account supporting a globally renowned financial institution at its flagship, owner-occupied headquarters in Hong Kong. This mission‑critical facility houses core banking operations, data centers, trading floors, and executive functions—demanding the highest standards of reliability, resilience, and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the Site Lead and partnering closely with Regional Engineering Leadership, the CEM will provide strategic direction and hands‑on leadership for all engineering operations. The role requires a proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high‑performing technical teams , drive complex capital and critical infrastructure projects , and deliver compelling business cases that align engineering initiatives with the client’s strategic and financial objectives. Exceptional stakeholder management and executive‑level communication are paramount. The CEM will act as the primary engineering liaison between JLL, the client’s Real Estate, Technology, Risk, and Operations leadership, ensuring seamless alignment on priorities, risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, and service delivery. Key focus areas Leadership of a multidisciplinary engineering team in a 24/7 critical environment Oversight of major facility upgrades, retrofits, and new‑build integration projects Development of data‑driven business cases to justify capital and operational investments Proactive management of relationships with internal stakeholders, external vendors, and regulatory bodies Ensuring uninterrupted operations of life‑safety, power, HVAC, and IT‑critical systems Fluency in both English and Cantonese/Mandarin is essential. Demonstrated experience in banking or financial services facilities, particularly with Tier III/IV data centers , trading floor environments , or mission‑critical infrastructure , is highly preferred. Major Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Team Coaching Provide visionary leadership and daily coaching to a diverse team of engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence. Mentor direct reports through structured development plans, performance reviews, and hands‑on skill‑building (e.g., Tool Box Talks, troubleshooting workshops). Instill a client‑first mindset, professional conduct, and unwavering commitment to safety across all team members. Critical Facilities & Major Project Delivery Oversee the operation, maintenance, and enhancement of critical building systems , including emergency power (generators, UPS), redundant HVAC, fire/life safety, and building automation. Lead or support major capital projects (e.g., infrastructure modernization, ESG retrofits, technology upgrades) from concept through commissioning, ensuring on‑time, on‑budget delivery with minimal business disruption. Develop robust business cases with clear ROI, risk analysis, and operational impact assessments to secure stakeholder buy‑in and funding approval. Stakeholder Engagement & Executive Communication Serve as the trusted engineering advisor to senior client stakeholders (C‑suite, COO, CIO, Head of Real Estate). Translate technical realities into strategic insights through clear, concise reporting—written and verbal—in both operational and boardroom settings. Manage expectations, resolve conflicts, and build consensus across cross‑functional teams (IT, Security, Finance, Compliance). Operational Excellence & Compliance Ensure 100% compliance with local regulations (e.g., EMSD, FSD, BEC), international standards (ISO, NFPA), and internal banking policies. Drive KPI performance against SLAs, including response times, system uptime, energy efficiency, and client satisfaction scores. Implement and optimize digital work management platforms (e.g., Corrigo) for preventive/reactive maintenance, asset tracking, and reporting. Manage annual O&M and project budgets exceeding multi‑million HKD, with rigorous cost control and value‑engineering discipline. Identify and execute cost‑saving opportunities without compromising reliability or safety. Oversee vendor selection, contract management, and invoice validation for engineering services. Safety, Sustainability & Innovation Champion a “Zero Harm” safety culture with rigorous hazard identification, near‑miss reporting, and behavioral safety programs. Advance the client’s ESG goals through energy optimization, decarbonization initiatives, and sustainable operations. Evaluate and pilot emerging technologies (e.g., AI‑driven predictive maintenance, digital twins) to enhance facility resilience. Ideal Candidate Profile Required Qualifications & Experience Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Building Services Engineering (or equivalent); Chartered/Registered Engineer status preferred. 8+ years of progressive engineering leadership experience, with at least 5 years in critical facilities (data centers, hospitals, trading floors, or banking HQs). Proven track record managing multi‑million‑dollar capital projects and developing executive‑level business cases . Deep expertise in HVAC, electrical distribution, emergency power, BMS/BAS, and life‑safety systems in high‑availability environments. Demonstrated success in coaching technical teams , driving performance, and building talent pipelines. Exceptional stakeholder management skills with senior leaders in regulated industries (banking, finance, or professional services). Fluency in English key, Cantonese and Mandarin a benefit ; strong technical report writing and presentation abilities. Proficiency in MS Office, CMMS (e.g., Corrigo, Maximo), and data analytics tools. Personal Attributes Calm, decisive leadership under pressure Strategic thinker with operational rigor Collaborative, ethical, and client‑obsessed Passionate about innovation, sustainability, and people development Location: On‑site –Hong Kong, SAR, China If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table #J-18808-Ljbffr