Manager, Real Estate & Facilities

CohereCohere·Remote(Toronto)
Other
Excel

WFA Digital Insight

As the demand for skilled real estate and facilities managers continues to grow, with a 25% increase in job postings in the last year, professionals with a strong background in strategic real estate management and facilities operations are in high demand. Cohere, a leading AI company, is seeking an experienced Manager to oversee its global real estate portfolio and facilities. With the company's mission to scale intelligence to serve humanity, this role offers a unique opportunity to work with a dynamic team and shape the future of AI. Candidates should have a strong understanding of commercial lease negotiation, vendor management, and facilities operations, as well as excellent strategic thinking and financial management skills.

Job Description

About the Role

The Manager, Real Estate & Facilities will play a critical role in overseeing Cohere's global real estate portfolio and facilities operations. This position will be responsible for leading strategic real estate management, including lease negotiations, renewals, and terminations, as well as managing the company's relationship with its global brokerage partner, JLL. The successful candidate will have a strong background in commercial real estate, facilities management, and vendor management, with excellent strategic thinking and financial management skills.

The role will involve working closely with the Head of Procurement, HR, and Leadership to align headcount vs. office space strategy with budget parameters, ensuring offices are managed accordingly. The Manager will also be responsible for conducting market analysis and site selection for new locations and expansions, as well as overseeing portfolio performance metrics and financial reporting.

Cohere is a team of researchers, engineers, designers, and more, who are passionate about their craft. Each person is one of the best in the world at what they do, and the company believes that a diverse range of perspectives is a requirement for building great products.

What You Will Do

  • Lead all lease negotiations, renewals, and terminations for Cohere's global portfolio
  • Manage and optimize the company's relationship with JLL as its global brokerage partner
  • Align headcount vs. office space strategy with FP&A and HR on budget parameters, ensuring offices are managed accordingly
  • Conduct market analysis and site selection in conjunction with the Head of Procurement, HR, and Leadership for new locations and expansions
  • Oversee portfolio performance metrics and financial reporting
  • Manage real estate budget for the company
  • Negotiate contracts with vendors for cleaning, security, maintenance, and other facility services
  • Manage vendor relationships, performance evaluations, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Consolidate and streamline FM services across all office locations
  • Direct physical security operations and compliance across all sites
  • Develop and implement facilities policies, procedures, and sustainability initiatives
  • Manage facility budgets, capital planning, and expense optimization

What We Are Looking For

  • 8-10 years of experience in combined real estate and facilities management
  • Demonstrated success in managing relationships with global brokerage firms and vendors
  • Strong background in commercial lease negotiation and administration
  • Ability to link operational decisions to business strategy and growth objectives
  • Experience managing budgets in partnership with FP&A to ensure budget control and optimization
  • Excellent strategic thinking and financial management skills
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize multiple tasks

Nice to Have

  • Experience managing real estate/facilities across multiple locations
  • CRE/FM certifications, such as CPM, CFM, or similar professional designations
  • Experience with FM software, lease management systems, and data analytics

Benefits and Perks

  • Opportunity to work with a dynamic team and shape the future of AI
  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Flexible working hours and remote work options
  • Professional development and growth opportunities
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment
  • Recognition and reward for outstanding performance
  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs
  • Generous PTO and vacation time

How to Stand Out

  • Develop a strong understanding of commercial lease negotiation and administration to stand out in the application process
  • Showcase your experience in managing relationships with global brokerage firms and vendors to demonstrate your ability to work with key stakeholders
  • Highlight your ability to link operational decisions to business strategy and growth objectives to demonstrate your strategic thinking
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with budget management and financial optimization to demonstrate your financial acumen
  • Research Cohere's mission and values to demonstrate your understanding of the company's culture and goals
  • Prepare examples of your experience with facilities operations and management to demonstrate your ability to oversee complex projects
  • Consider obtaining CRE/FM certifications to enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to the field

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