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: Dynamic role with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative data centre projects with real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in large-scale data centre projects and strong M&E 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.
- 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 Recruitment
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.
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 skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your experience with large-scale data centre projects and any relevant M&E systems you've worked on. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Associate Director (Planning) role. Share specific examples of your past successes in project planning and controls, and how they relate to our major hyperscale data centre programme.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in tools like Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject, and MS Project. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make sure we know about your technical expertise right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cobalt Recruitment
✨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 showcase 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 demonstrate your proficiency, so having a few examples of how you've used these tools effectively in previous roles will give you an edge.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to talk about your experience working with various stakeholders, including clients and subcontractors. Highlight how you've successfully managed relationships and ensured alignment with project goals in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this is a senior role, be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you've mentored teams in the past. Share specific instances where your guidance led to improved planning processes or project outcomes.
