Workplace Strategist

Overview As a Workplace Strategy Lead in Gensler's North Central Region, you will be a key partner in defining and executing the future of workplace strategy at the firm. You will lead complex programming, visioning, and strategic planning engagements for a diverse range of clients—from established institutions navigating hybrid work to high‑growth companies reimagining their environments entirely. You will translate organizational ambition into spatial strategy, blending user insight, business performance, and design possibility. You will work closely with the Regional Strategy Director to build the NCR Strategy practice from the ground up, establishing credibility with clients and colleagues, developing emerging strategists, and defining what leading with strategy means in this region. Location Based in Chicago. Requires full‑time presence in the office with reasonable flexibility for personal needs. This is not a remote role. What You Will Do Lead workplace strategy and programming engagements from discovery through implementation, including space calculations, scenario modeling, test fits, occupancy analytics, and strategic visioning Design and facilitate workshops (virtual and in‑person) for groups ranging from 10 to 100+ participants, translating organizational objectives into actionable spatial strategies Synthesize research, data, and stakeholder input into compelling strategic narratives that inform design direction and client decision‑making Partner with architecture and design teams to ensure seamless integration of strategy into project execution, serving as the strategic voice throughout the design process Build and maintain client relationships independently, serving as a trusted advisor on workplace transformation, real‑estate strategy, and organizational change Develop methodology, tools, and frameworks that elevate the quality and consistency of the NCR Strategy practice’s workplace offerings Mentor and upskill junior strategists on programming, facilitation, strategic planning, and client engagement Contribute to business development efforts, including proposals, pitches, and thought leadership that positions Gensler as the strategic partner of choice for workplace transformation Collaborate with Strategy, Brand, Sustainability, Product, and Digital Experience teams to deliver integrated, cross‑functional solutions Represent the practice in internal and external forums, building visibility and credibility of Strategy in the North Central Region Your Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in architecture, interior design, urban planning, organizational development, business strategy, or a related field 7–10 years of professional experience executing workplace strategy, space programming, real‑estate portfolio strategy, or management consulting with a focus on the built environment Deep technical fluency in workplace programming, including space standards, utilization analysis, scenario planning, test fits, and adjacency planning Demonstrated ability to design and lead high‑impact workshops and strategic engagements with senior stakeholders Proven track record delivering strategic recommendations that have directly informed design outcomes and organizational decision‑making A strong portfolio (2–3 projects) demonstrating command of strategic communication, data visualization, and persuasive storytelling A clear point of view on the future of work—not trends for trends’ sake, but a grounded perspective on how organizations, technology, and space are evolving together Experience working in or closely with architecture and design firms; fluency in how strategy and design intersect is essential Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences Entrepreneurial mindset and comfort operating in an evolving, ambitious practice that is actively being defined Self‑motivated, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word), and digital collaboration tools (Miro, Microsoft Teams, etc.) Comfort and skill integrating AI‑powered research and synthesis tools into strategic workflows—whether for accelerating research, refining narratives, or generating insights at scale Experience with data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI) and workplace analytics platforms is a plus Familiarity with IWMS platforms, workplace occupancy sensors, or real‑estate analytics tools is a plus To Be Considered Please submit a portfolio of 2–3 workplace strategy or programming projects that demonstrate your approach, craft, and impact. Include a brief statement (500 words or less) outlining your point of view on the future of work and how workplace strategy must evolve to meet it. Compensation and Benefits The base salary will be estimated between $100,000 and $120,000, plus bonuses and benefits contingent on relevant experience. Full benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k), profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and biannual bonus opportunities. About Strategy at Gensler Gensler’s Strategy Practice explores and defines how space, technology, services, and policy can create great experiences and support an organization’s best work. We use in‑depth user research and data to develop strategies that enable our clients to meet their business and organizational objectives. In the North Central Region, we are building a practice that integrates Strategy, Brand, Sustainability, and emerging disciplines to deliver genuine transformation for clients. Equal Employment Opportunity We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer of choice. All aspects of employment decisions will be based on merit, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, and local law. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with federal, state, and local law. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us. We will never ask for sensitive or personal financial information during the recruitment process. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gensler