More than just winning bids for Charissa Wentzel

With over nineteen years of experience in bid management across architecture, construction, and real estate, Charissa Wentzel had been hearing impressive things about JLL since 2011. When an opportunity arose in early 2020 to join us as a Bid Manager for Project & Development Services in the UAE, she didn't hesitate.

"Everyone knows JLL is a global powerhouse in real estate," Charissa explains. "But what caught my attention first was the culture—the teamwork, ethical business practices, and genuine commitment to excellence and innovation, not just corporate speak."

In her role, Charissa leads the entire proposal lifecycle, coordinating with internal teams and external partners to develop compelling bids that showcase JLL's services and expertise. Her work has resulted in numerous exciting wins across the UAE, though she particularly remembers one proposal that took over a year and four rounds of submissions. "At one point, they told us another firm got it. We thought we were done, but they returned. We pushed through several more stages and finally won it. Total roller coaster, but so worth it!"

Another standout achievement was securing a major new client in the data centre sector after months of persistent effort, ultimately winning both project and cost management services.

What makes JLL special for Charissa goes beyond the proposal wins. "The growth opportunities are real. I've gotten more challenging projects that actually push me to expand my skills," she shares. Our flexible work arrangements, cutting-edge technology, and structured career development programmes create an environment where professionals truly thrive.

"But honestly, what I love most is the collaboration," Charissa reflects. "Whether I'm working with the P&DS team or across JLL businesses regionally and globally, everyone's aligned on getting quality work done the right way. It just makes our work more enjoyable."