Project Manager in Bedford

About the Role

This is a hands-on project management role focused on delivering data centre cooling projects from customer order through to successful handover. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the technical, commercial and programme aspects of cooling projects involving rear door heat exchangers, liquid cooling infrastructure and associated services. The role requires close coordination with customers, consultants, contractors, commissioning teams, sales teams and suppliers to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time and to the customer's expectations. This is not a desk-based reporting role. We are looking for someone who understands how data centre projects are designed, installed, commissioned and handed over in real-world environments.

Why This Role Matters

Data centre operators increasingly expect suppliers to take ownership of project delivery, not simply provide equipment. This role ensures our customers receive a professional, predictable and technically competent project experience from initial order through to operational acceptance.

Responsibilities

• Project Delivery
  • Manage cooling projects from order receipt through to final handover.
  • Develop and maintain project programmes, budgets and risk registers.
  • Ensure equipment is delivered, installed and commissioned in line with project requirements.
  • Coordinate internal resources and external contractors.
  • Monitor project progress and proactively resolve issues that may impact cost, quality or schedule.
  • Manage project change requests and contractual variations.
• Customer Management
  • Act as the primary point of contact for customers throughout project execution.
  • Establish strong working relationships with consultants, contractors and end users.
  • Lead project review meetings and provide clear progress updates.
  • Manage customer expectations and ensure all commitments are delivered.
• Technical Coordination
  • Work closely with engineering, manufacturing and service teams to ensure technical requirements are fully understood and achieved.
  • Review cooling designs, drawings and technical documentation.
  • Coordinate site surveys, installation activities and commissioning plans.
  • Support project teams in resolving technical issues encountered during delivery.
• Commercial Responsibility
  • Track project cost performance and gross margin.
  • Identify commercial risks and escalate issues when required.
  • Manage subcontractors and suppliers to meet agreed performance targets.
  • Support contract reviews and ensure project obligations are met.
• Site Activities
  • Attend key customer and contractor meetings.
  • Support Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and Site Acceptance Tests (SATs).
  • Oversee commissioning and final project handover activities.
  • Ensure all activity is completed in line with health and safety requirements.

Qualifications

• Essential
  • Proven experience delivering data centre cooling, M&E, HVAC or critical infrastructure projects.
  • Strong understanding of cooling technologies used within modern data centres.
  • Experience working with consultants, contractors and end users.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Strong commercial awareness and understanding of project financials.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Willingness to travel across the UK and Europe.
• Desirable
  • Experience with liquid cooling or rear door cooling technologies.
  • Knowledge of commissioning processes within critical environments.
  • Understanding of data centre design standards and industry best practice.
  • Project Management qualification (PMP, PRINCE2 or equivalent).
  • Engineering or technical qualification.

How Success Will Be Measured

• Projects delivered safely.
• Projects delivered on time.
• Projects delivered within budget.
• Customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• Successful commissioning and handover.
• Minimal warranty claims and project defects.
• Effective management of project risks and change requests.

At Legrand, we are a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. Every day, our 38,000+ employees across nearly 90 countries work to improve lives by transforming the spaces where people live, work, and connect. Driven by innovation, simplicity, and sustainability, we design high-value solutions that make buildings smarter, more efficient, and more comfortable. From connected technologies to energy-efficient systems, our products and services empower millions of users around the world. Our strength lies in our diversity—of people, expertise, and brands. Whether you join Legrand or one of its brands, you’ll be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where your ideas matter and your growth is supported. Together, we’re building the future of buildings. Come and make an impact with us.