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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global datacentre design and construction, driving innovation and efficiency.
- Company: Join a leading AI infrastructure company shaping the future of data centres.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a global impact in a fast-growing tech sector with a visionary team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in datacentre design, with strong leadership and technical expertise required.
- Other info: Ideal for strategic thinkers ready to tackle complex, large-scale projects.
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 builds. Highlight any experience you have in cross-functional collaboration, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in data centre infrastructure. Being knowledgeable about cutting-edge cooling systems, power distribution, and compliance standards will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your project track record in detail during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of large-scale builds you've successfully delivered, focusing on your strategic approach and the impact of your decisions.
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 specific projects that demonstrate your technical depth and strategic thinking.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your vision for the role. Discuss how your background aligns with the company's mission and how you can contribute to their global design and planning strategy.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: If you have any relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer (ATD), make sure to mention them prominently in your application. These credentials can set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, provide examples of your leadership experience, particularly in managing complex, multi-regional projects. Highlight your ability to influence at C-level and manage high-stakes decision-making effectively.
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 before the interview. Be ready to articulate how your vision aligns with their goals, particularly in terms of innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in datacentre design and construction.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Prepare to discuss how you would approach challenges related to compliance, budgeting, and continuous improvement in a global context.
