JDL Recruitment is supporting a growing data centre platform in the appointment of a Global Director of Engineering to shape its global engineering strategy, drive standardisation and build the engineering capability needed to support international expansion.
This is a senior leadership opportunity for a forward-thinking engineering professional who can look beyond individual projects, anticipate future customer and technology requirements, and align engineering decisions with the wider commercial strategy.
UK preferred, with regular international travel across Europe, India and Japan.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a high-performing, multidisciplinary global engineering organisation spanning mechanical, electrical, controls, architecture, BIM, civil and structural engineering.
- Own and continuously evolve the Global Reference Design (GRD), ensuring it remains aligned with future customer requirements, emerging technologies and market developments.
- Drive global engineering standards, governance and repeatable design solutions to improve scalability, accelerate delivery and support business growth.
- Balance technical performance with commercial priorities, including CAPEX, time to market, constructability, resilience, sustainability and total cost of ownership.
- Lead engineering assessments of prospective development sites, including feasibility, test fits, achievable capacity and development potential.
- Oversee design reviews, technical assurance and deviations from global standards across the development portfolio.
- Provide senior technical leadership throughout design, procurement, construction, commissioning and operational readiness.
- Partner with Commercial and Sales teams to support customer engagement, technical due diligence and the development of credible, customer-focused engineering solutions.
- Build engineering capability, develop talent and foster a culture of innovation, commercial judgement, accountability and continuous improvement.
Requirements
- Significant senior engineering leadership experience within hyperscale, colocation, mission-critical or similarly complex infrastructure environments.
- Strong understanding of data centre design, construction, commissioning and operational requirements across multiple engineering disciplines.Th
- Proven experience developing and implementing engineering standards, reference designs and technical governance across multiple projects and geographies.
- Experience building, leading and evolving multidisciplinary engineering teams in a high-growth environment.
- Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to balance technical excellence against CAPEX, speed to market, customer requirements and wider business outcomes.
- Experience contributing to site feasibility, development planning and investment decisions through engineering expertise.
- A forward-thinking, strategic mindset, with the ability to challenge conventional approaches, anticipate future requirements and see the bigger picture.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, including the ability to engage with senior leadership and major customers.
- Willingness and ability to travel internationally on a regular basis.
If you're an engineering leader ready to shape global strategy and make a lasting impact on the future of data centre development, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Global Director of Engineering employer: JDL Recruitment
As a Design Manager with our leading developer in London, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work on cutting-edge data centre projects that make a real impact. Join us to be part of a team that values your expertise and fosters a supportive environment for career advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Director of Engineering
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like JDL Recruitment, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to JDL Recruitment specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at JDL Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with JDL Recruitment, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like JDL Recruitment value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
