Data Centre Manager

Our client, a global provider of data centre and facilities management services, is seeking an experienced Data Centre Manager to lead operations at a mission-critical site in London.

This senior role will manage and develop the on-site team, ensure delivery of critical and facilities services, and drive operational excellence in a 24/7/365 environment.

The Role

The Data Centre Manager will provide leadership and oversight across all operational, financial, and client-facing aspects of the contract. The successful candidate will be responsible for achieving KPI and SLA targets, managing budgets and P&L, and maintaining compliance across health, safety, and technical standards.

This is a highly client-facing role requiring strong leadership, stakeholder management, and the ability to deliver consistently high levels of service in a demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop the on-site data centre operations and FM teams.
• Ensure all contractual KPIs and SLAs are achieved and exceeded.
• Manage annual contract budgets, P&L forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Act as the primary client contact for escalations, incidents, and strategic updates.
• Ensure full compliance with H&S policies, statutory requirements, and risk management.
• Oversee subcontractor management, scheduling, and performance monitoring.
• Develop succession planning, training, and staff retention strategies.
• Manage escalation procedures and emergency responses.
• Deliver effective business communication through reports, meetings, and client updates.
• Drive innovation, efficiencies, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain optimum staffing structures to provide 24/7 coverage.
• Ensure accurate use of CAFM/ticketing systems for all workflow and reporting.

Candidate Profile

• Degree in electrical, mechanical, or IT engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Proven managerial experience within critical environments or data centres.
• Strong understanding of M&E systems including generators, UPS, switchgear, chilled water, BMS, fire detection, and suppression.
• Experience managing P&L, budgets, and contract reporting.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with experience in recruitment, line management, and performance reviews.
• Strong knowledge of H&S, risk assessments, and compliance processes.
• Experience managing subcontractors and outsourced service providers.
• Strong IT literacy, including MS Office, Visio, and Microsoft Project.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills.

The Opportunity

This is a senior leadership role within a market-leading service provider in the data centre sector. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing a critical site, driving operational excellence, and building strong client relationships. In return, the role offers career progression, professional development, and a competitive rewards package.