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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global datacentre design and construction, overseeing complex projects from start to finish.
- Company: Join a leading AI infrastructure company at the forefront of the datacentre industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a global impact in a fast-growing tech sector with a visionary leadership team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in datacentre design, with strong technical expertise and leadership experience required.
- Other info: This is a unique opportunity for top industry talent to drive innovation and excellence.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Head of Planning & Design – Data Centres
Location: Europe (Flexible/Hybrid/Remote Considered)
Employment Type: Full-time | Senior Leadership
Reports To: SVP, Global Design & Construction
About the Role
We are working on behalf of a leading Data Centre AI Infrastructure company seeking a visionary Head of Planning & Design to lead their global Datacenter Design and Construction division . This is a mission-critical leadership position responsible for defining and executing best-in-class infrastructure strategies across their expanding datacenter portfolio. You will lead complex, multi-regional projects from inception to delivery, and act as the technical authority across electrical, mechanical, and cooling disciplines .
This is not a typical leadership role—we are looking for one of the best in the industry . If you\’re a technical heavyweight, a strategic thinker, and a proven leader who can navigate the complexity of global infrastructure at scale, we want to speak to you.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership : Own the global design and planning strategy for new builds, expansions, and retrofits.
- Design Management : Lead the development of robust electrical, mechanical, and cooling system designs, driving innovation, scalability, and efficiency.
- Technical Oversight : Provide hands-on guidance during design reviews, ensuring alignment with Tier I-IV standards, client needs, and internal objectives.
- Stakeholder Collaboration : Partner cross-functionally with operations, sustainability, procurement, and IT to align infrastructure with long-term business goals.
- Vendor and Contractor Management : Directly oversee external consultants, engineers, and contractors, ensuring all work meets quality, timeline, and budget targets.
- CAPEX & Budgeting : Own cost forecasting and capital planning, ensuring the financial viability of major design and construction programs.
- Compliance and Standards : Ensure adherence to local codes, global regulations, and internal standards throughout all projects.
- Continuous Improvement : Identify and implement best practices to enhance efficiency, reduce risk, and drive performance across the full lifecycle of datacenter development.
What We’re Looking For
- Education : Bachelor’s or Master’s in Electrical, Mechanical, or a related Engineering discipline.
- Experience : 10+ years in datacenter design & construction, with 5+ years in senior leadership roles .
- Technical Depth : Expertise in mission-critical infrastructure: power distribution, UPS, generators, HVAC, and cutting-edge cooling systems.
- Project Track Record : Proven success delivering large-scale, complex builds across multiple geographies.
- Standards Expertise : Deep understanding of Tier I-IV, ASHRAE, Uptime, and other global frameworks.
- Leadership & Communication : Exceptional ability to lead teams, influence at C-level, and manage high-stakes decision-making.
Preferred Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng)
- Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer (ATD)
- PMP or equivalent project management qualification
Why Join?
- Shape the infrastructure of one of the fastest growing tech sectors in the world
- Work with a visionary leadership team and a highly technical group of peers
- Drive critical design decisions with global impact
- Be part of a high-performance, no-nonsense team that values excellence
Head of Planning & Design employer: DataX Connect
Contact Detail:
DataX Connect Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning & Design
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals who have experience in data centre design and construction. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and leaders in the field, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by participating in or leading projects that demonstrate your ability to manage complex, multi-regional initiatives. Highlight these experiences in conversations with recruiters or during interviews to illustrate your capability for this senior role.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in data centre infrastructure, particularly in electrical, mechanical, and cooling systems. Being knowledgeable about cutting-edge solutions will position you as a strong candidate who can drive innovation within the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your understanding of global standards such as Tier I-IV and ASHRAE during interviews. Demonstrating your expertise in compliance and best practices will show that you are well-equipped to lead the planning and design efforts effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning & Design
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in datacentre design and construction. Focus on your leadership roles and any specific projects that demonstrate your technical depth and project track record.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your strategic vision for planning and design in datacentres. Mention your understanding of global frameworks like Tier I-IV and how your expertise aligns with the company's goals.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: If you have certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), Chartered Engineer (CEng), or Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer (ATD), make sure to include these prominently in your application. They can set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've led teams and influenced decision-making at a high level. This role requires exceptional leadership and communication skills, so be sure to illustrate your capabilities in these areas.
How to prepare for a job interview at DataX Connect
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a candidate for the Head of Planning & Design, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of mission-critical infrastructure. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented electrical, mechanical, and cooling systems, highlighting your technical depth and problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
This role requires exceptional leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've led teams in high-stakes environments, influenced C-level decisions, and managed complex projects across multiple geographies. Highlight your experience in stakeholder collaboration and vendor management.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s mission and values thoroughly. During the interview, articulate how your vision aligns with their goals, particularly in terms of innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in datacentre design and construction. This shows that you are not just a fit for the role but also for the company culture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to Tier I-IV standards, ASHRAE guidelines, and other relevant frameworks. Brush up on these topics and be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance and quality in your projects. This will demonstrate your readiness to take on the technical authority aspect of the role.
