Hassan Shaikh

With more than two decades of experience, I have established a strong track record in global real estate and workplace innovation, delivering strategic, people‑centric solutions across biopharmaceuticals, property funds, aviation, retail, and design. My career has consistently centred on leading complex, multi‑disciplinary projects and shaping workplace environments that enhance organisational performance, user experience, and long‑term value creation. I also hold a Doctorate in Design, which strengthens my research‑driven approach to workplace strategy and informs my ability to translate emerging insights into practical, future‑ready solutions.

In my current role as Senior Manager Workplace Strategy at Boehringer Ingelheim—a global, family‑owned organization with 55,000 employees—I hold a key governance position within the Global Real Estate & Facility Management team. I oversee workplace strategy across international projects, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives while driving innovation, agility, and sustainability. My work focuses on creating future‑ready, people‑centric environments that support hybrid work, foster collaboration, and strengthen organisational competitiveness. I partner closely with cross‑functional teams to develop robust business cases, optimise space utilisation, and deliver cost‑efficient, high‑quality workplace solutions that respond to evolving business needs.

Previously, as Global Workplace Strategist & Occupancy Planner at Lilium, a pioneering German EVTOL aviation company, I led the development of an integrated workplace strategy designed to support rapid organisational growth, operational transformation, and the unique demands of an emerging aviation technology environment.

Before joining Lilium, I founded and directed Revolve, serving as Executive Director & Principal Workplace Strategist. Through this consultancy, I advised national and international clients across workplace, retail, and hospitality sectors. I managed diverse professional teams, championed workplace technology initiatives, guided clients through change management programmes, and ensured strong operational risk governance.

Alongside my industry work, I have contributed to academia as a Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology and Vega School of Design, teaching interior design, sustainable design, and work‑integrated learning. These roles allowed me to mentor emerging design professionals and share practical, real‑world expertise.

Recognised for my leadership, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence, I remain dedicated to continuous improvement. I regularly present my PhD research and case studies at conferences across Europe and South Africa, translating complex ideas into accessible, actionable insights for diverse audiences.