Design Manager - Data Centre Construction

Design Manager, Data Centres | Milan, Italy

JDL Recruitment are partnering with a globally recognised, tier-one data centre developer to hire a Design Manager for their expanding hyperscale data centre programme in Milan, Italy.

This is a rare client-side opportunity to take ownership of design across one of the most significant data centre developments currently underway in Southern Europe.

The Role

You'll lead the full design lifecycle from concept through to construction and handover, working directly with the Project Lead and senior leadership team. You'll manage multidisciplinary consultants, oversee contractor design efforts, and act as the primary point of reference for all design activity across complex, fast-moving hyperscale developments.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage multidisciplinary design teams (CSA, MEP, Fire, IT) from inception through RIBA Stage 5
• Select, appoint and manage engineering consultants and specialist experts, distributing workload and ensuring quality output
• Lead design governance, QA/QC reviews and technical compliance across all project stages
• Oversee contractor design efforts during RIBA Stage 4 and 5, ensuring alignment with project documentation and regulatory requirements
• Manage RFI and RFP processes, evaluate proposals and lead consultant procurement
• Drive cost/time-benefit analysis and value engineering initiatives
• Ensure full compliance with Italian and European regulations, building codes and industry standards (TIER, IEC, BREEAM, LEED)
• Manage design change requests, providing clear visibility on cost and programme impacts
• Act as primary design interface with stakeholders, end-users and internal departments

Requirements

• Master's Degree in Engineering (Structural, Mechanical, Electrical or related discipline)
• Minimum 5 years' experience in data centre design with a strong CSA and MEP focus
• Proven track record managing complex, multidisciplinary design teams on hyperscale or colocation data centre projects
• Strong understanding of RIBA stages, Italian permitting processes, building regulations and construction compliance
• Experience in consultant negotiation, contract management and procurement
• Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder management skills
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks and MS Project advantageous
• PMP or PgMP certification a plus
• Knowledge of Italian required