JLL supports the Whole You, personally and professionally.

Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology to our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people in our industry; and we support them through professional growth, flexibility, and personalized benefits to manage life in and outside of work. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades, and technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, we empower you to shape a brighter way forward so you can thrive professionally and personally.

Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Research Director to lead our data centre research initiatives across the Asia Pacific region from our Singapore hub or another established data centre market where JLL operates. This senior role will drive thought leadership, market intelligence, and strategic insights for JLL's data centre practice, supporting client advisory services and business development across the rapidly expanding digital infrastructure sector.

Key Responsibilities
Research Leadership & Strategy
Drive the development and execution of comprehensive research strategies for mature and emerging data centre markets across APAC.

Lead primary and secondary research initiatives that position JLL as the definitive source of data centre market intelligence in the region.

Market Analysis & Forecasting
Conduct deep-dive analysis of data centre supply, demand, pricing trends, and investment flows.

Track and analyze market activity across APAC's leading data centre developers, operators, tenants, and investors.

Develop sophisticated forecasting models for colocation, hyperscale, on-prem and edge computing segments.

Monitor regulatory developments, sustainability initiatives, and technological shifts impacting the sector.

Thought Leadership & Publications
Author flagship research reports, market outlooks, and white papers that establish JLL's intellectual capital in the data centre space.

Present findings at industry conferences, client events, and media briefings.

Collaborate with global research teams to ensure consistency and leverage international insights.

Client Advisory Support
Provide strategic research support for client engagements across capital markets, project and development services, facility management and occupier solutions.

Develop bespoke research deliverables for institutional investors, developers, and technology companies.

Support pitch presentations and new business development initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement
Build and maintain relationships with key industry players including data center operators, cloud service providers, telecommunications companies, and institutional investors.

Engage with government agencies and industry associations to stay ahead of policy and regulatory developments.

Team Development
Lead and mentor research analysts and associates across business lines and geographies.

Foster a culture of analytical excellence and innovation within the research team.

Collaborate with business line leaders to ensure research output aligns with commercial objectives.

Required Qualifications
Advanced degree in Economics, Finance, Real Estate, Urban Planning, or related quantitative field.

Minimum 8-10 years of experience in commercial real estate research. Previous experience in Asia Pacific markets strongly preferred.

Deep understanding of data center fundamentals including power infrastructure, cooling systems, network connectivity, and operational requirements.

Proficiency in Excel and data visualization platforms.

Experience with GIS mapping and spatial analysis preferred.

Comprehensive knowledge of APAC data center markets including regulatory frameworks, major players, and investment trends.

Understanding of cloud computing, edge infrastructure, and emerging technologies driving data center demand.

Familiarity with sustainability and ESG considerations in data center development.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to present complex analysis to diverse audiences.

Proven track record of producing high-quality research publications and thought leadership content.

Strong project management and team leadership capabilities.

Previous experience at a leading commercial real estate services firm, investment bank, or data center operator.

Established network within the Asia Pacific data center ecosystem.

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!

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.

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 102,000 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.