JLL Names Lead for Workplace Management

CHICAGO -- JLL has appointed Chris Fernandez to lead its Workplace Management business across the Americas, where he will oversee teams, enhance operational performance and deploy future capabilities to accelerate growth.

In his new role, Fernandez will leverage his two decades of corporate real estate experience to drive strategy for workplace optimization, facilities management, engineering, employee experience, technical building services, sustainable operations and occupancy management across client accounts.

“Chris has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in delivering innovative solutions that enhance client experiences and drive operational excellence,” said Dr. Paul Morgan, Global Chief Operating Officer, Real Estate Management Services at JLL and head of Workplace Management.

“His deep understanding of workplace strategy, combined with his proven track record in managing complex client transitions, makes him the ideal leader to advance our Workplace Management capabilities across the Americas and strengthens our position as the partner of choice for organizations navigating the evolving workplace landscape.”

Fernandez will continue his role as Global Leader for JLL’s Client Onboarding Experience Team (COET), which is focused on enhancing client relationships through engagement starting at the solution, into due diligence, and through the transition and stabilization of JLL’s new accounts.

“I'm honored to take on this expanded role at such a pivotal time for workplace management,” Fernandez said. “Our clients are reimagining how their workplaces support business objectives and employee wellbeing, while adapting to the pace of change with AI and robotics in those workplaces. By integrating our expertise across facilities management, technical services and employee experience and staying at the front of the pack when it comes to the application of AI and robotics; we can deliver comprehensive solutions that not only meet today's challenges but position our clients for long-term success in this dynamic environment.”

Based in Austin, Texas, his roots in the industry stem from the construction sector, where he began with JLL’s Project Development Services (PDS) business and became one of JLL’s originally LEED accredited employees in 2007.

Prior to joining JLL in 2006, Fernandez was a construction engineer for The Beck Group and served as an officer in the United States Air Force, where he oversaw construction management. He was graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in construction science.

Fernandez assumes the role at a time when demand for skilled trades talent in commercial real estate is experiencing unprecedented growth. According to recent JLL Workplace Management research, job postings for skilled trades have doubled over the past decade, outpacing demand for knowledge workers and other major occupation categories.

The research projects that by 2030, an estimated 2.1 million skilled trades positions could go unfilled, with potential economic losses reaching $1 trillion annually. As buildings become increasingly sophisticated with smart technologies and automated systems, the role of skilled trades workers continues to evolve, requiring expanded capabilities in digital tools, advanced building systems and complex asset management.

JLL Real Estate Management Services (REMS) partners with leading organizations across industry sectors, creating environments that achieve a more human-centric, resilient and responsible approach to shaping a better world of work.

For more information, visit jll.com.