Design Manager

We are seeking a highly motivated Data Centre Manager to join our growing engineering and operations team delivering cutting-edge data centre projects. This is an exciting opportunity to lead mission-critical infrastructure programmes in a fast-paced, technically challenging environment.

This is an outside IR35 contract position , offering flexibility and the opportunity to manage high-impact projects.

Key Responsibilities

As Data Centre Manager, you will oversee the design, construction, and operational readiness of mechanical and electrical systems across multiple projects, ensuring safe, efficient, and coordinated delivery:

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams of engineers, designers, and contractors to deliver M&E design and construction for data centres.

• Pre-construction (Precon) Leadership:
  • Lead feasibility studies, design reviews, and early-stage planning activities.
  • Review design packages, highlight risks, and ensure constructability, compliance, and cost efficiency.
  • Prepare preconstruction reports, technical proposals, and value engineering assessments.
  • Coordinate with clients, architects, and consultants during concept and detailed design stages to ensure alignment with project objectives.
• Oversee project delivery from concept through commissioning, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Ensure all designs and installations comply with industry standards, regulations, and client requirements.
• Conduct site visits, manage technical queries, and provide guidance during installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Drive value engineering, process improvements, and operational efficiency initiatives.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Maintain operational oversight of existing data centre infrastructure where relevant, ensuring reliability, safety, and compliance.

Requirements

• Degree-qualified in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience managing M&E design and construction projects, preferably in data centres or mission-critical facilities.
• Strong preconstruction and early-stage design coordination experience.
• Experience in healthcare, pharmaceutical, power generation, or oil & gas industries is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and building services systems.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and coordinate complex projects.
• Familiarity with relevant design and project management tools (e.g., BIM, Revit, Navisworks, MS Project).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

What’s on Offer

• Outside IR35 contract engagement
• Competitive day rate
• Opportunity to manage high-profile, mission-critical data centre projects
• Flexible working arrangements (project dependent)
• Exposure to diverse industries and complex engineering challenges
• Supportive and collaborative working environment

If you are an experienced Data Centre Manager with strong preconstruction and delivery expertise, looking for your next contract opportunity, we encourage you to apply.