Project Director, Digital & Smart Buildings

Job ID: 26011628Posted: 2026-07-27Location: New York, NY, United StatesSalary: $123000 - $215250 annually + bonus + equity (if applicable) + benefitsJob Function: Real EstateSchedule: Full timeWorkplace: HybridCareer Area: FinanceCompany: American ExpressDescriptionGlobal Real Estate and Workplace Experience (GREWE) is a global team at American Express (Amex) responsible for the full lifecycle of planning, execution, and operations of Amex real estate. GREWE supports over 75,000 Amex colleagues and contractors in over eight million square feet of property located in 59 countries. GREWE’s purpose is to provide the world’s best workplace experience at a competitive cost, for every colleague, at every site, every day. The GREWE Property Development team is responsible for delivering a new global headquarters from concept to completion. They lead the full lifecycle of the project—overseeing design, coordinating construction, managing stakeholders, and ensuring the building is fully prepared for operations. This team is responsible for ensuring the headquarters is delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with organizational goals and future workplace needs.How will you make an impact in this role?You will lead the end-to-end digital, technology, and smart building enablement strategy and roadmap for our next-generation American Express headquarters. Acting as the central integrator across design, procurement, construction, and operational readiness, you will ensure all building systems, enterprise technologies, and workplace experience platforms are seamlessly connected, secure, scalable, and ready for deployment.This role goes beyond infrastructure delivery—you will be accountable for ensuring that both:Front-of-house/end-user experience (colleague, guest, UX/UI, and customer-facing digital interactions) are fully enabled, tested, and optimized prior to occupancy.Back-of-house operations (building systems, infrastructure, security, data platforms and digital twin) You will ensure that all end-user experience technologies—from workplace tools and collaboration systems to smart spaces, digital signage, access, and service platforms—are delivered, integrated, and operationally ready as part of the HQ program.By enabling “Smarter Systems, Seamless Experiences,” you will drive a unified digital ecosystem that enhances sustainability, operational efficiency, cybersecurity, and workplace experience—while unlocking the power of real-time data, automation, and AI to future-proof the building and enable a best-in-class digital experience for colleagues globally.ResponsibilitiesDefine the Strategy & Execution of the Digital and Smart Building Roadmap for HQ Technology, Infrastructure, and ExperienceDigital & Smart Building HQ StrategyLead the holistic digital and smart building strategy for the new HQ across all phases (design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and operations). Define and deliver a fully integrated digital ecosystem spanning building systems, enterprise IT, workplace technologies, and user-facing platforms. Ensure alignment between GREWE, Digital Product, Engineering, Security, Workplace Experience, and Business stakeholders and AMEX global strategies.Back-of-House Enablement (Operational Technology & Infrastructure)Oversee integration of core building and operational systems, including: BMS, HVAC, lighting, elevators, energy systems Security, access control, and life safety systems IoT platforms and sensor networks Ensure OT/IT convergence, cybersecurity compliance, and resilience of all systems. Embed data architecture, governance, and digital twin capabilities to enable predictive operations and performance optimization. End-User Experience (UX & UI) Enablement Ensure readiness and implementation of all end-user facing technologies: Workplace experience platforms (room booking, desk booking, mobile apps) Collaboration technologies (AV, conferencing, hybrid meeting solutions) Smart spaces (sensor-driven environments, adaptive workspaces) Digital signage, wayfinding, and guest experience systems Security, access, identity, and seamless entry experiences Partner with Workplace Experience, Digital Product & engineering teams to ensure: Solutions are user-centric, intuitive, and frictionlessTechnology is fully tested, deployed, and operationally ready at go-liveDefine and execute end-user acceptance testing (UAT) and experience validation.Digital Infrastructure, Integration & Development of an Interconnected Ecosystem toenable optimization of facilities management through technology system implementation, data governance, and AI enabled automation:Establish interoperability standards and open frameworks acrossNetwork, Wi-Fi, and connectivity infrastructure Cloud and edge computing environments APIs, middleware, and integration layers Digital TwinData warehouse and governance Ensure all systems integrate into a single, cohesive digital platform.Program Management, Delivery & GovernanceAct as the central integration lead across all digital and smart building domains. Develop technical requirements, RFPs, and vendor strategies. Manage cross-functional coordination and dependencies across: Design teams, contractors, and system integrators Enterprise Technology, Cybersecurity, and Data teams Workplace Experience and Operations Prioritize across the digital roadmap and ensure continuous, agile deliveryRemove roadblocks and risks to ensure portfolio maintains on schedule.Establish governance, reporting, and executive communication cadence. Testing, Commissioning & ReadinessLead Integrated Systems Testing (IST) across all platforms. Oversee commissioning to validate: System performance InteroperabilityCybersecurity compliance Ensure end-to-end readiness for both operational teams and end users prior to occupancy.Performance, Analytics & Continuous OptimizationEnable real-time monitoring and analytics for: Energy efficiency and sustainability Space utilization System performance and uptime User experience insights Drive AI-enabled and data-driven optimization strategies. Establish a roadmap for continuous improvement post-occupancy.QualificationsMinimum QualificationsProven experience delivering smart buildings, digital infrastructure, or workplace technology programs at scale. Expertise in enterprise technology new product development, digital portfolio management, network and infrastructure, delivery, testing and GTMStrong knowledge of building systems integration and OT/IT convergence. Experience defining and delivering an end-to-end technology roadmap and translating business requirements into technical solutions. Highly effective executive communication and visual storytelling capability, with a track record of clearly conveying complex concepts through compelling presentations tailored to senior leaders and diverse stakeholder audiences.Comfortable navigating ambiguity and defining strategy from ‘white space’Proven ability to influence across a diverse set of stakeholders at all band levels, driving alignment, and delivering outcomes without direct authority.Highly skilled in Agile product development methodologies, program and project managementWorking knowledge of cybersecurity in OT and smart building environments. Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross-functional, multi-vendor programs.Preferred QualificationsExperience with digital workplace platforms and end-user experience technologies. Background in smart building platforms, digital twins, and advanced analytics. Familiarity with open protocols and integration standards (BACnet, MQTT, APIs). Knowledge of sustainability frameworks (LEED, WELL, ESG). Strong understanding of user experience (UX) design in workplace environments. Experience implementing data and analytics strategies in built environments. Relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, CISSP, LEED AP). Professional certifications in smart buildings, engineering, IT, or project management (e.g., PMP, CISSP, LEED AP).Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.About the TeamAt American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. From delivering differentiated products to providing world-class customer service, we operate with a strong risk mindset, ensuring we continue to uphold our brand promise of trust, security, and service.As part of Team Amex, you’ll experience our powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well-being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express.