Optimization Lead - HR Operations

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.    Job Title: Optimization Lead – HR Operations ___________________________________________________________________________ About JLL: We’re JLL—a leading professional services and investment management firm specializing in real estate. We have operations in over 80 countries and a workforce of over 91,000 individuals around the world who help real estate owners, occupiers and investors achieve their business ambitions. As a global Fortune 500 company, we also have an inherent responsibility to drive sustainability and corporate social responsibility. That’s why we’re committed to our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world. We’re using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities. Our core values of teamwork, ethics and excellence are also fundamental to everything we do and we’re honored to be recognized with awards for our success by organizations both globally and locally. Creating a diverse and inclusive culture where we all feel welcomed, valued and empowered to achieve our full potential is important to who we are today and where we’re headed in the future. And we know that unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives help us think bigger, spark innovation and succeed together. If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements below. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table! Job Description: Optimization Lead – HR Operations Role Summary The Optimization Lead – HR Operations is a senior individual contributor responsible for driving continuous improvement, process standardization, and operational excellence across the full spectrum of HR functions. Sitting within the broader HR Operations organization, this role supports four global service centers — Manila, Dalian, Gurugram, and Warsaw — partnering with HR leaders, operational teams, and technology stakeholders to identify inefficiencies, design scalable solutions, and lead high-impact projects that enhance the employee and candidate experience. Key Responsibilities Process Improvement & Optimization • Lead end-to-end process improvement initiatives across HR Operations, applying Lean, Six Sigma, and structured project management methodologies. • Conduct root cause analyses, process mapping, and gap assessments to identify optimization opportunities across HR functions. • Define, measure, and track KPIs and SLAs to monitor operational performance and improvement outcomes. • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), playbooks, and documentation to ensure consistency and scalability. Project Management • Manage multiple concurrent projects from initiation through implementation, ensuring on-time delivery and stakeholder alignment. • Build project charters, workplans, and risk registers; facilitate steering committee and working group sessions. • Partner cross-functionally with HR sub-functions (Payroll, Rewards, HR Admin, Careers, L&D, Onboarding) and across all four service centers to drive integrated solutions. AI & Technology Enablement • Identify and implement AI-powered tools, automation, and digital solutions to streamline HR operational workflows. • Collaborate with HR technology teams to optimize the use of platforms such as Workday, and evaluate emerging tools for operational fit. • Document and catalog AI use cases, translating them into measurable business outcomes for stakeholder communication. Operations Management & Stakeholder Engagement • Serve as a subject matter expert and internal consultant on operational best practices across HR facets. • Prepare executive-ready reports, dashboards, and presentations that communicate insights and recommendations to senior leadership. • Support change management activities to embed new processes and ensure adoption across HR teams. • Collaborate with service center leads across Manila, Dalian, Gurugram, and Warsaw to align local practices with broader HR Operations transformation priorities. Qualifications & Requirements Education • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. • Master’s degree is an advantage. Experience • Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in Process Improvement, Operational Excellence, or Project Management, with at least 3 years in an HR or HR Operations context. • Demonstrated track record leading complex, cross-functional improvement initiatives from diagnosis through sustained implementation. • Hands-on experience across multiple HR facets, including any combination of: Payroll, Rewards & Compensation, HR Administration, Careers/Talent Management, Learning & Development (L&D), and