Director, Research

What this job involves:

This role leads JLL's APAC Research Data Operations team, ensuring the quality, consistency, and reliability of property market data across more than 20 Asia Pacific markets. You will oversee the data that underpins JLL's research, insights, and Real Estate Intelligence Service client deliverables, collaborating closely with local market Research teams and internal stakeholders. The position requires tactical oversight of the APAC component of JLL Research's offshore data management capability in India.

What your day-to-day will look like:

• Leading and developing the APAC Data Operations team to support Research teams across the region with timely submission and validation of market data

• Establishing data quality frameworks and conducting systematic reviews to identify missing information, inconsistencies, or unusual trends

• Directing the preparation and management of datasets using agreed standards and processes, ensuring compliance across all markets

• Monitoring key property market indicators and validating trends against real estate fundamentals

• Overseeing the maintenance and optimization of databases and systems used to store and deliver research data to clients and internal stakeholders

• Driving continuous improvement initiatives and implementing best practices across the APAC Data Operations function including championing the evaluation, testing, and adoption of AI and automation tools that enhance data quality and streamline processes

• Managing relationships with offshore data management teams in India and China and onshore stakeholders, setting priorities and monitoring performance

• Collaborating with senior stakeholders to align data operations with broader research and business objectives

• Reporting on team performance, data quality metrics, and operational efficiency to senior management

• Contributing highly specialized expertise in APAC data and methodologies to global data initiatives

Required Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in a data operations management role, ideally within a commercial real estate agency or related industry

• Proven ability to analyze complex information, identify issues, apply logical problem solving, and effectively communicate findings to diverse stakeholders and senior management

• Strong leadership skills with demonstrated ability to manage, mentor, and develop high-performing teams

• Excellent project management capabilities with the ability to prioritize multiple initiatives, meet deadlines, and drive results in a fast-paced environment

• Exceptional attention to detail with deep expertise in managing data-intensive processes

• Bachelor's degree in economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, or a related discipline

• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, including complex formulas and working with large, structured datasets

• Fluency in English with excellent written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with teams across APAC markets and managing offshore operations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven track record of implementing data quality controls and validation processes

• Experience leading teams in the adoption of automation, AI tools, or process improvement initiatives

• Previous experience managing offshore or distributed teams

• Deep understanding of Asia Pacific commercial real estate markets and how JLL Research materials are leveraged to support the transaction business lines

• Mandarin language proficiency is advantageous due to regular collaboration with Mandarin-speaking stakeholders and offshore data operations teams in China.