Data Center Project Director Job at JLL (Luxembourg)

Job Description

The Data Center Project Director leads the strategic management of complex data center projects including new construction, infrastructure upgrades, capacity expansions, and critical system modernizations. This senior leadership role encompasses full accountability for project delivery, from initial concept through commissioning and handover, ensuring successful execution within budget, schedule, and quality parameters while maintaining operational continuity of mission-critical facilities. As a key client-facing executive, you will drive business development opportunities while leading multidisciplinary teams to deliver world-class data center solutions ranging from edge facilities to hyperscale campuses.

Job Responsibility

Provide executive-level project leadership for data center developments valued from €50M to €500M+, including hyperscale, colocation, and enterprise facilities
Develop and execute comprehensive project strategies encompassing scope definition, timeline optimization, budget management, and resource allocation across multiple concurrent projects
Lead business development initiatives, including proposal development, client presentations, and strategic relationship management with key stakeholders
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project delivery methodologies and organizational capabilities
Serve as primary executive interface for C-level clients, investors, and key stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle
Facilitate strategic decision-making processes, manage expectations, and ensure alignment between project objectives and broader organizational goals
Coordinate with utility providers, regulatory authorities, and local governments to secure necessary approvals and infrastructure connections
Lead executive steering committee meetings and board-level project reviews
Oversee technical delivery of critical infrastructure systems including power distribution (up to 100MW+), advanced cooling systems, fire suppression, security systems, and backup power generation
Ensure compliance with industry standards including TIA-942, Uptime Institute Tier classifications, ASHRAE guidelines, and local regulatory requirements
Manage complex commissioning processes for critical systems, coordinating with vendors, contractors, and commissioning agents to achieve operational readiness
Oversee capacity planning, redundancy design, and future expansion capabilities to meet evolving client requirements
Develop and implement comprehensive risk management frameworks, proactively identifying and mitigating technical, commercial, and operational risks
Lead change management initiatives to address scope modifications, technology evolution, and organizational impacts
Ensure adherence to quality standards, safety protocols, and environmental sustainability requirements throughout project execution
Manage crisis resolution and contingency planning to maintain project continuity and client confidence
Lead multidisciplinary project teams of 20-50 professionals including project managers, engineers, architects, and specialist consultants
Maintain P&L accountability for assigned projects, managing budgets, forecasting, and financial reporting to senior leadership
Develop project documentation standards, reporting protocols, and knowledge management systems to capture lessons learned and best practices
Mentor and develop junior team members while building organizational capabilities in data center project delivery

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or equivalent technical discipline
Master's degree preferred
Professional certifications such as PMP, P3O, or equivalent project management credentials
Data center-specific certifications (Uptime Institute, DCCA, or similar) highly valued
12+ years of progressive project management experience with minimum 8 years focused on data center or critical infrastructure projects
Proven track record managing data center projects from 10MW to 100MW+ capacity with project values exceeding €50M
Deep understanding of critical infrastructure systems including UPS, PDUs, CRAC/CRAH units, generators, fire suppression, and building management systems
Comprehensive knowledge of data center design standards, industry regulations, and commissioning processes
Experience with both new construction and live environment upgrades requiring zero-downtime execution
Understanding of hyperscale, colocation, and enterprise data center business models and operational requirements
Demonstrated success in P&L management with accountability for multi-million euro project portfolios
Proven ability to lead large, diverse teams and manage complex stakeholder relationships across multiple organizations
Strong commercial awareness with experience in contract negotiation, vendor management, and business development
International project experience with understanding of European construction markets and regulatory frameworks
Fluency in English and French (essential for Luxembourg operations)
additional European languages advantageous
Exceptional presentation and communication abilities with proven experience engaging C-level executives and board members
Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills with ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholder groups
Cultural sensitivity and adaptability for working in international, multicultural environments
Strategic thinking capability with ability to balance long-term vision with operational execution demands
Entrepreneurial mindset with track record of driving innovation and process improvements
Resilience and adaptability in high-pressure, fast-paced environments with evolving requirements
Strong ethical foundation with commitment to safety, quality, and professional excellence
Results-oriented leadership style with proven ability to deliver complex projects on time and within budget

Nice to have

Master's degree
Data center-specific certifications (Uptime Institute, DCCA, or similar)
additional European languages

What we offer

Entrepreneurial, inclusive culture
Total Rewards program reflecting commitment to helping you achieve your ambitions in career, recognition, wellbeing, benefits and pay

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