Overview
We are seeking an experienced Research Director to lead our data centre research initiatives across the Asia Pacific region. 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
o Drive the development and execution of comprehensive research strategies for mature and emerging data centre markets across APAC.
o Lead primary and secondary research initiatives that position JLL as the definitive source of data centre market intelligence in the region.
* Market Analysis & Forecasting
o Conduct deep-dive analysis of data centre supply, demand, pricing trends, and investment flows.
o Track and analyze market activity across APAC's leading data centre developers, operators, tenants, and investors.
o Develop sophisticated forecasting models for colocation, hyperscale, on-prem and edge computing segments.
o Monitor regulatory developments, sustainability initiatives, and technological shifts impacting the sector.
* Thought Leadership & Publications
o Author flagship research reports, market outlooks, and white papers that establish JLL's intellectual capital in the data centre space.
o Present findings at industry conferences, client events, and media briefings.
o Collaborate with global research teams to ensure consistency and leverage international insights.
* Client Advisory Support
o Provide strategic research support for client engagements across capital markets, project and development services, facility management and occupier solutions.
o Develop bespoke research deliverables for institutional investors, developers, and technology companies.
o Support pitch presentations and new business development initiatives.
* Stakeholder Engagement
o Build and maintain relationships with key industry players including data center operators, cloud service providers, telecommunications companies, and institutional investors.
o Engage with government agencies and industry associations to stay ahead of policy and regulatory developments.
* Team Development
o Lead and mentor research analysts and associates across business lines and geographies.
o Foster a culture of analytical excellence and innovation within the research team.
o 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.
* Experience in commercial real estate services, investment banking, infrastructure investment, or data centre operators preferred.
* Demonstrated ability to build and maintain networks with key stakeholders in the data centre ecosystem
Location: On-site – Sydney, NSW
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.
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