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Global Corporate Solutions (GCS)
Reporting to the Managing Director and World Bank Group Chief Administrative Officer, Global Corporate Solutions (GCS) brings together the functions of Corporate Services, Corporate Real Estate, and Corporate Security. All unit’s report to the Director (GCSDR).

GCS’s Corporate Real Estate Division (GCSCR) supports IBRD, IDA, MIGA, and ICSID in realizing and executing their real estate needs worldwide. It is a key interlocutor between Senior Management, operational management, and staff of the four institutions. GCSCR’s primary purpose is to create safe, cost effective, sustainable, and functional space to meet the business needs for each unit so that they can perform the work that is needed to support the WBG mission.

GCSCR is comprised of approximately 100 staff, leverages over 500 contractors, and manages an annual facilities capital investment plan of ~$150 million globally. GCSCR works closely with the Regions on the Bank’s more than 175 country offices and manages of the Bank’s owned or leased offices. To achieve its purpose, GCSCR led by the Senior Manager, is structured into 3 divisions: (i) HQ Real Estate Development & Management (GCSHQ) and (ii) Global Real Estate Development & Management (GCSIR) and (iii) Global Strategy and Planning or Center of Excellent (GCSSP). GCSCR also acts as the Secretariat for the WBG’s Real Estate Governance Framework, including supporting the WBG Real Estate Governance process.

The Center of Excellence (CoE) is a dedicated organizational team that serves as a central hub of expertise. This team comprises of functional domain exerts focused on driving operational excellence, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring the successful execution of initiatives. This includes managing toolsets, processes, strategy, leases, acquisitions and disposition of real property, workplace planning, sustainability, and project management.

The Manager, WBG Real Estate Center of Excellence (CoE) will be based in Washington, DC and will report to the Senior Manager, Global Corporate Real (GCSCR).

Duties and Accountabilities:
The CoE Manager will lead and manage the CoE function, providing leadership, best practices, research, support, training and performance excellence across real estate strategy, transaction management, facilities management, and project management functions. The Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies, standards, and frameworks that promote operational efficiency, innovation, and continuous improvement. They will contribute to the delivery of a streamlined WBG Real Estate function. This role requires a visionary leader with a strong track record of successful implementation. They will have a deep understanding of the industry best practices and the ability to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development within the organization.

Key areas of responsibility include:
• Thought Leadership: In collaboration with Senior Manager and peer functional managers, the Manager CoE will support the establishment of a functional charter for the CoE supporting the strategic roadmap goals and objectives for corporate real estate. They will also serve as a central point of contact and advisor on matters related to real estate, facilities management, and project management, guiding real estate teams on corporate real estate related administrative functions, and related initiatives.
• Objective Setting, Planning and Execution: Develop and implement objectives for the CoE and its sub-units of SMEs, including on facilities management, project management, and transaction management. Support the goals of GCSCR, GCS, and WBG. Identify and prioritize key projects and initiatives for the team. Ensure effective project execution, meeting deadlines, and maintaining high-quality standards.
• Best Practices and Standards: Evaluate operational effectiveness in corporate real estate, including on transaction management, construction management, planning, and facilities management; and develop conclusions, make recommendations, and report out on these operational activities. Develop, implement, and maintain best practices, standards, and methodologies to ensure consistency and high-quality outcomes. Create comprehensive guidelines, policies, and procedures to streamline processes and improve efficiency. Oversee the implementation and maintenance of the WBG Global real estate standards, including building, workplace and space standards as well as policies, and processes.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Accelerate the automation lifecycle to streamline workflows, enhance data integrity, and establish consistent dashboards and tools for clients. Identify and integrate innovative technologies and methodologies to stay ahead of industry trends. Foster a culture of continuous improvement by regularly evaluating and refining processes and practices.
• Project Support and Process: Offer project management support, including tools, templates, and expert guidance to ensure successful project delivery. Monitor and control project performance, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, vendors, and industry partners, to understand and address business needs and priorities.
• People Management: Allocate team resources effectively to ensure the successful completion of key projects. Manage the team’s budget and ensure efficient use of all CoE allocated resources. Oversee the recruitment and onboarding of new team members.
• Knowledge Management and Sharing: Promote the development and dissemination of best practices, methodologies, and innovative solutions by facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration across functional teams and departments, while maintaining a repository of knowledge, case studies, and research findings; additionally, provide ongoing training and development opportunities through workshops, seminars, and certification programs to enhance employee skills and promote professional growth.
• Performance Metrics and Reporting: Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness and impact of real estate, facilities management, and project management activities. Provide regular reports and insights to senior leadership to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
• Resource Management: Allocate resources effectively to ensure the successful completion of projects. Manage the team’s budget and ensure efficient use of resources. Oversee the recruitment and onboarding of new team members.

Selection Criteria

• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (i.e. Real Estate, Facilities/Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, Business Management) or similar closely related field with at least 12 years of substantial professional experience in positions of increasing complexity and responsibility
• Experience in a large international organization or corporate environment, with an understanding of their operational intricacies and strategic imperatives.
• Advocate for operational excellence and efficiency in real estate and facilities functions, promoting superior reporting, analytical support, standardization, and automation while delivering high-quality services to internal clients.
• Proven track record of managing and leading teams of domain or subject matter experts, with excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven experience in strategic real estate, project, and facilities management, particularly in complex projects in emerging/growth markets, with technical knowledge in compliance, governance, leasing, building operations, and construction.
• Strong knowledge of industry standards, best practices, and emerging trends.
• Ability to think strategically and translate vision into actionable plans. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• High degree of tact and discretion in dealing with internal and external persons at all levels and in handling confidential or sensitive information
• Client-focused, results-oriented, and practical problem-solving approach.
• Business-oriented with financial skills to evaluate cost/benefit data, develop business cases, and write strong proposals.
• Proficient in strategic reporting, proposal writing, and developing directives, policies, and process flows.
• Relevant professional and functional certifications in Real Estate / Architect / Engineer / Project /Facilities /Audit; as well as PMP, Six Sigma, or other specific domain-related certifications, are a plus.
• Willingness to travel for short-term assignments and work outside normal office hours when required.

Required: WBG Managerial Competencies

World Bank Group Core Competencies

The World Bank Group values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of World Bank Group member countries to apply, regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. Sub-Saharan African nationals, Caribbean nationals, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.