Workplace Operations Lead

Scale is a cutting-edge artificial intelligence startup dedicated to revolutionizing the way businesses leverage AI and machine learning technologies. We specialize in providing high-quality training data to fuel the development of AI models across various industries. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a seasoned Workplace professional for our People Team to join our dynamic team and play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI.

Job Overview:

As the Head of Workplace at Scale, you will lead our global Workplace function across ~10 offices worldwide. You will own our real estate portfolio, the Workplace budget, and the day-to-day experience in every office, managing our integrated facilities management partner (CBRE) and other outsourced service providers on the ground. You will build and lead the Workplace team, partner closely with Security on safety and preparedness, and work hand in hand with our international leaders as we expand. Your work will make our offices safe, well run, cost-effective, and places people want to be.

You will:

Real Estate Portfolio Management:

• Lead strategy, planning, and oversight of Scale’s global real estate portfolio across ~10 offices.
• Manage site selection, acquisition, lease negotiation and administration, renewals, and disposition of properties, working with brokers, landlords, and legal.
• Partner with International HR and business leaders to plan for growth and expansion into new markets.
• Use occupancy, utilization, and cost data to decide when to grow, consolidate, or exit space.

Vendor & Service Delivery Management:

• Own the relationship with our integrated facilities management partner (CBRE) and other outsourced service providers across the global portfolio.
• Define and manage SLAs, KPIs, and regular performance reviews to deliver a consistent, high-quality experience in every office.
• Lead vendor sourcing, contract negotiations, and renewals.

Budget & Financial Ownership:

• Own the global Workplace and Real Estate budget, including leases, facilities operations, food and beverage, and capital projects.
• Build annual budgets and forecasts, track spend against plan, and report regularly to Finance and leadership.
• Find ways to reduce cost without compromising the employee experience.

Workplace Experience and Food & Beverage:

• Oversee food and beverage programs across all offices, including catering vendors, service models, dietary needs, and budget.
• Partner with Employee Experience on events, amenities, and programs that bring people together and strengthen our culture.
• Gather employee feedback and use it to keep improving the office experience.

Workplace Design and Projects:

• Lead office openings, expansions, relocations, and build-outs from start to finish, working with architects, contractors, and project managers.
• Design flexible, sustainable, and collaborative workspaces that use technology to support how our teams work.

Safety, Preparedness and Compliance:

• Partner closely with Security on workplace safety, emergency preparedness, and business continuity planning.
• Own health and safety compliance at each site, including evacuation plans, drills, first aid/AED readiness, and incident response procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and environmental requirements related to our offices and real estate.

Team Leadership and Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Build, lead, and develop a global team of Workplace professionals, working alongside on-site vendor teams.
• Partner with People, Security, IT, Finance, and Legal to set consistent workplace standards and make aligned decisions.

Ideally you'd have:

• Experience: Proven experience leading a global, multi-site Real Estate and Workplace function.
• Vendor Management: Deep experience managing integrated facilities management partners (e.g., CBRE, JLL, Cushman & Wakefield) and outsourced service models.
• Financial Management: Track record of owning and managing large, multi-million-dollar operating and capital budgets.
• Real Estate: Experience negotiating leases and leading office openings, build-outs, and relocations, including internationally.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Strategic Mindset: Ability to think strategically and balance cost, employee experience, and business needs.
• Project Management: Excellent project management skills, with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Team Management: Experience building and leading strong Workplace teams made up of both FTEs and vendor partners.
• Communication: Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior leaders and collaborate cross-functionally.
• Adaptability: Highly adaptable approach to a fast-paced, high-growth business environment.