At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategy for pioneering UK data centre projects and shape procurement frameworks.
- Company: Join a groundbreaking tech company redefining AI infrastructure in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and the chance to influence the future of AI.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and ethical business practices.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative technology and make a real impact on the UK's AI landscape.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in commercial roles, with expertise in data centre projects and UK construction law.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Commercial Director – Data Centre Startup
Join a pioneering UK tech company building the nation’s first sovereign AI infrastructure.
We’re on a mission to redefine how organisations unlock value through bespoke, vertically integrated AI solutions – delivered securely, ethically, and at scale. Our sovereign data centre network underpins this vision, combining cutting-edge technology, world-class design, and robust commercial discipline.
We’re now seeking an experienced Commercial Director to lead all commercial, procurement, and contractual activities across our growing UK data centre portfolio.
About the Role
As Commercial Director, you’ll take ownership of the commercial strategy and governance across multiple large-scale data centre developments. You’ll shape our procurement frameworks, vendor partnerships, and contract management practices – ensuring we deliver market-leading performance, best value, and full commercial transparency from project inception through to commissioning.
This is a key leadership role working at the intersection of technology, infrastructure and commercial – offering a rare opportunity to influence the future of sovereign AI in the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all commercial and procurement functions for the UK data centre development programme.
- Define and implement commercial policies, procedures, and governance frameworks.
- Develop and maintain cost models, benchmarks, and market intelligence.
- Manage procurement strategies for modular MEP systems, long-lead equipment, and specialist services.
- Build and maintain strategic vendor and contractor relationships.
- Negotiate and manage high-value contracts to ensure risk mitigation and best value.
- Oversee cost control, financial forecasting, and earned-value tracking across multiple sites.
- Ensure compliance with UK law, corporate governance, and ethical procurement standards.
- Provide senior leadership with clear commercial insights, reporting, and strategic recommendations.
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 15 years of commercial and procurement experience, at least 5 years in a Senior or Director-level role.
- Proven success delivering large-scale data centre projects.
- Expert knowledge of UK construction law and NEC / JCT contracts.
- Experience developing commercial frameworks and procurement strategies for complex technical builds.
- Strong financial acumen and multi-project portfolio management experience.
- Exceptional negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills.
About You
You’re a commercially astute, strategically minded leader who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments. You balance big-picture thinking with hands-on delivery, ensuring that cost, quality, and schedule targets are met – every time.
You value transparency, ethical business, and continuous improvement, and you’re excited by the opportunity to help build something truly transformational for the UK.
Commercial Director - UK Data Centres employer: AJ Group
Contact Detail:
AJ Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Director - UK Data Centres
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Commercial Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a strong LinkedIn profile that highlights your experience in commercial strategy and procurement. Share insights and articles related to data centres and AI to position yourself as a thought leader in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with their mission of delivering bespoke AI solutions and how you can contribute to their growth in the UK data centre market.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals who can help us redefine the future of AI infrastructure. Your next big opportunity could be just a click away!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Director - UK Data Centres
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Commercial Director role. Highlight your achievements in commercial strategy and procurement, especially in data centre projects, to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you the perfect fit for leading our commercial activities. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a key leadership role, we want to see examples of how you've successfully led teams and projects in the past. Share specific instances where your strategic thinking and negotiation skills made a difference in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our mission to transform the UK’s AI infrastructure!
How to prepare for a job interview at AJ Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Commercial Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to cost control, financial forecasting, and earned-value tracking. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets in previous roles.
✨Master the Legal Landscape
Familiarise yourself with UK construction law and NEC/JCT contracts. Prepare examples of how you've navigated legal complexities in past projects. This will show that you understand the importance of compliance and governance in commercial activities.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Be prepared to discuss your approach to developing commercial frameworks and procurement strategies. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will highlight your ability to think strategically while managing complex technical builds.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills are crucial for this role. Think of ways you've built and maintained relationships with vendors and contractors. Share stories that illustrate your negotiation skills and how you've ensured transparency and ethical practices in your dealings.