At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning and project controls for a major hyperscale data centre programme.
- Company: Join a leading Tier 1 contractor in the tech industry.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary, bonuses, car allowance, travel expenses, and comprehensive benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and innovative environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on cutting-edge data centre projects with sustainability focus.
- Qualifications: Experience in large-scale data centre projects and strong M&E systems knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Associate Director (Planning) to lead the planning and project controls function on a flagship hyperscale data centre programme. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a candidate with a proven background delivering large-scale, technically complex M&E and mission-critical projects.
You will play a pivotal role in driving integrated project planning, programme controls, and delivery strategy across a multidisciplinary team, ensuring alignment with key project milestones, commissioning requirements, cost objectives, and client expectations.
This landmark development forms part of a major data centre expansion programme being delivered by a leading Tier 1 contractor for a global technology client. The project involves the delivery of a state-of-the-art, mission-critical facility designed to the highest operational resilience and sustainability standards.
Key features of the development include:
- Large-scale hyperscale data halls and supporting infrastructure
- Complex M&E systems including HV/LV distribution, UPS, generators, CRAH/CRAC cooling systems, and BMS integration
- Extensive commissioning and integrated systems testing requirements
- High-specification security, resilience, and redundancy standards
- Fast-track construction and phased handover strategy
- Sustainability-focused design aligned with energy efficiency and operational performance targets
The successful candidate must have demonstrable experience delivering major data centre or mission-critical projects and a strong understanding of complex M&E packages, commissioning processes, and live programme environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Take full ownership of the project master programme from preconstruction through commissioning, client handover, and operational readiness
- Develop and maintain fully integrated, resource-loaded programmes using Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject, and MS Project
- Lead planning and project controls across all construction, M&E, commissioning, and client workstreams
- Drive earned value management (EVM), progress measurement, and programme performance reporting
- Conduct risk-based schedule analysis, time impact assessments, and mitigation planning
- Work closely with project directors, commercial teams, consultants, subcontractors, and client stakeholders to maintain programme integrity
- Manage and coordinate commissioning and testing schedules in line with mission-critical delivery requirements
- Produce clear, data-driven reporting for both operational and executive-level stakeholders
- Mentor and develop planning teams while embedding best-practice planning and controls processes
- Ensure programme alignment with procurement schedules, contractual obligations, and NEC-based delivery frameworks
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Proven experience leading the planning function on large-scale data centre, mission-critical, or major M&E-led construction projects
- Strong background working with Tier 1 contractors or specialist mission-critical delivery environments
- Excellent understanding of complex M&E systems, commissioning sequences, and phased handover processes
- Advanced proficiency in Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject, and MS Project
- Strong project controls expertise including EVM, risk management, change control, and reporting
- Experience administering programmes under NEC3/NEC4 or similar contract forms
- Confident engaging with senior stakeholders, consultants, subcontractors, and client teams
- Degree-qualified in construction, engineering, or related discipline
- Professional membership (APM, CIOB, ICE, RICS or equivalent) preferred
If this opportunity aligns with your experience, please apply with your latest CV.
Associate Director (Planning) Data Centre employer: Cobalt Consulting (UK) Ltd
Join a leading Tier 1 contractor in Central London, where you will be at the forefront of delivering a landmark hyperscale data centre programme. Our company fosters a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration, offering comprehensive benefits including a competitive salary package, car allowance, and travel expenses. We are committed to employee growth, providing opportunities for professional development and mentorship within a multidisciplinary team dedicated to excellence in mission-critical projects.
Contact Details:
Cobalt Consulting (UK) Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director (Planning) Data Centre
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and recent developments, especially in data centres. This will help you tailor your responses and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your experience with complex M&E systems and project controls.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director (Planning) Data Centre
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Associate Director (Planning) role. Highlight your experience with large-scale data centre projects and complex M&E systems to grab our attention!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share examples of your past successes in project planning and how you’ve led teams to deliver on time and within budget.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your proficiency in tools like Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject, and MS Project. Mention any relevant certifications or memberships that demonstrate your expertise in project controls and risk management.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our major hyperscale data centre programme.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cobalt Consulting (UK) Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of large-scale data centre projects and M&E systems. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in planning and project controls.
✨Master the Tools
Familiarise yourself with Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject, and MS Project. You might be asked to explain how you've used these tools in previous roles, so having concrete examples will show you're not just familiar but proficient.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss how you've successfully engaged with senior stakeholders and managed relationships with consultants and subcontractors. Think of instances where your communication skills made a difference in project outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership
As this is a senior role, be ready to talk about your leadership style and how you've mentored teams in the past. Highlight any best practices you've implemented in planning and controls that have led to successful project delivery.
