At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead site identification, land acquisition, and pre-construction alignment for data centre projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic start-up revolutionising the UK’s digital infrastructure with strong financial backing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for career growth in a mission-driven environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact from day one while shaping the future of energy and data.
- Qualifications: Commercially astute with technical capabilities; experience in project management preferred.
- Other info: Focus on Scotland with a collaborative approach across teams and stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
An exciting, well-funded start-up in the data centre and infrastructure development space is seeking a commercially astute and technically capable Development Manager to lead the identification, assessment, and delivery of colocation and hyperscale data centre opportunities across the UK, with a strategic focus on Scotland. This role sits at the intersection of pre-construction development and commercial strategy, responsible for shaping the business’s data centre pipeline and driving value through land acquisition, infrastructure assessment, and M&A-aligned opportunity appraisal. You will develop compelling business cases, lead negotiations with landowners, coordinate grid connection feasibility, and work cross-functionally to deliver Ready-To-Build (RTB) sites for in-house development or strategic exit.
Key Responsibilities
- Site Identification & Assessment: Identify and evaluate development sites in collaboration with technical and commercial teams. Conduct mapping, initiate contact with landowners, and lead early-stage engagement with key stakeholders.
- Land Acquisition & Legal Strategy: Negotiate and conclude Heads of Terms and Option Agreements with landowners or their representatives. Support the legal process to secure land rights and optimise site control through flexible structuring.
- Pre-Construction Technical Alignment: Work with the Technical Office and grid providers (e.g., DNOs, National Grid) to assess power availability and secure suitable connections. Evaluate site feasibility, including environmental, planning, and infrastructure constraints. Develop data-driven business cases including financial modelling, site valuation, and market positioning. Support or lead on due diligence for acquisitions, disposals, and joint ventures in line with corporate investment objectives. Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to align development activities with M&A strategy and capital deployment goals.
- Planning & Stakeholder Engagement: Oversee the planning process to secure permissions, working closely with planning consultants and statutory bodies. Build and maintain effective relationships with local authorities, regulatory stakeholders, and industry partners. Monitor and report on project progress, risks, and key deliverables to senior leadership. Manage budgets, track milestones, and ensure accurate internal reporting.
This is a rare opportunity to join an ambitious start-up at the leading edge of digital infrastructure development. With strong financial backing and a high-growth trajectory, the company is building a team of forward-thinking professionals who want to shape the future of the UK’s data and energy landscape. You’ll be empowered to make a real impact from day one, with the resources and support to grow your career in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Mergers and Acquisitions Manager employer: Spencer Ogden
Contact Detail:
Spencer Ogden Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mergers and Acquisitions Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the data centre and infrastructure development space. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups in Scotland to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with land acquisition and negotiations. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated similar challenges in previous roles, as this will showcase your suitability for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory landscape in Scotland regarding data centres. Understanding local planning processes and stakeholder engagement will give you an edge in discussions and show that you're proactive about the role's requirements.
We think you need these skills to ace Mergers and Acquisitions Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Mergers and Acquisitions Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in site identification, land acquisition, and stakeholder engagement.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your experience in project management, commercial strategy, and technical alignment. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead negotiations and develop business cases, particularly in the data centre or infrastructure sectors.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Highlight your understanding of the UK data centre market and your strategic vision for driving value through M&A opportunities. Make it personal and show how your goals align with the company's mission.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your documents. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your formatting is consistent. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spencer Ogden
✨Understand the Company and Its Vision
Before your interview, take the time to research the company’s mission and recent projects. Understanding their focus on data centre development and the strategic importance of Scotland will help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a Mergers and Acquisitions Manager, you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of technical concepts related to data centres. Be prepared to discuss site feasibility, power availability, and infrastructure constraints, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Since the role involves negotiating with landowners and stakeholders, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated complex negotiations. Highlight your strategies and outcomes to showcase your skills.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
This position requires working closely with various teams. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively collaborated with technical, commercial, and legal teams in previous roles, and how you can bring that experience to this new opportunity.