Head of Design

Head of Design & Construction DACH (m/w/d) Job Description Summary Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a visionary and experienced leader to head its Design & Build business across the DACH region. As Head of Design & Construction, you will be responsible for driving strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation within the Project & Development Services (PDS) team. This role carries full P&L accountability and people leadership responsibilities. You will lead the delivery of high-quality interior fit‑out projects across office, retail, and laboratory asset classes, while fostering strong collaboration with internal teams including leasing, sustainability, and other PDS service lines. The successful candidate will bring deep technical and regulatory expertise, a strong industry network, and a proven ability to manage complex, cross‑cultural teams. This is a growth‑focused role, requiring a forward‑thinking mindset to drive innovation—particularly through technological integration across project management, controlling, and finance. Strengthening supplier and partner networks, as well as enhancing collaboration across Cushman & Wakefield’s EMEA platform, will be key to success. Key Responsibilities Lead and expand the Design & Build business across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Own and manage full P&L responsibility for the business unit. Build, mentor, and lead a high‑performing team of design and construction professionals. Ensure compliance with regional technical and regulatory standards throughout all project phases. Deliver fit‑out projects for office, retail, and lab spaces with excellence and client‑centricity. Drive innovation in service delivery, including end‑to‑end technological integration across project, controlling, and finance functions. Strengthen and expand Cushman & Wakefield’s supplier and partner ecosystem. Foster close collaboration with internal teams across PDS, leasing, and sustainability. Enhance cross‑border cooperation within the Cushman & Wakefield EMEA network. Lead business development efforts and maintain strong relationships with investors, landlords, occupiers, and construction partners. Represent Cushman & Wakefield in industry forums and client engagements across the DACH region. Knowledge & Experience Minimum 10 years of experience in design and construction, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Strong technical and regulatory knowledge of construction practices in the DACH region. Proven experience in managing P&L and leading teams within large, matrixed organizations. Demonstrated ability to drive innovation and implement technology‑driven solutions in project delivery. Experience in managing supplier relationships and building strategic partnerships. Deep understanding of fit‑out processes for office, retail, and lab environments. Proven ability to work effectively in cross‑cultural, multilingual environments. Strong collaboration and stakeholder management skills across geographies. Established network within the real estate and construction industry. Sales and business development affinity with a strategic growth mindset. Fluency in German and English (minimum C1 level in both languages). University degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a related field; advanced degrees or certifications are a plus. What we offer Early assumption of responsibility, flat hierarchies and an international and modern working environment, attractive and performance‑related remuneration, flexible working hours, 30 vacation days plus special leave days, further training and development opportunities, company pension scheme. Please note, we do not consider applications per E‑mail. We foster a culture of inclusion that embraces the unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences of all our employees. We firmly believe that our diversity enhances our team's capabilities, leading to improved decision‑making, innovation, and business outcomes. #J-18808-Ljbffr