Senior Datacentre Design Director
The Company:
At Amber Labs, we are a cutting-edge UK and European technology consultancy that prioritises empowering autonomy, promoting experimentation, and facilitating rapid learning to provide exceptional value to our clients. Our company culture is centred around collaboration, where all colleagues, regardless of their role, work together to minimise risk and shorten delivery times. Our team consists of highly-skilled cross-functional consultants, analysts, and support staff.
Position Summary: The Senior Datacentre Design Director will lead the design, planning, and execution of world-class data center facilities. This role requires a deep understanding of data center architecture, operational standards, and technology infrastructure to drive high-quality, sustainable, and secure designs. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership in large-scale data center projects, extensive technical expertise, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet project objectives, timelines, and budgets.
Key Responsibilities:
Design Leadership:
Lead the architectural and engineering design of data center facilities, ensuring alignment with industry standards and best practices.
Develop and maintain design guidelines, ensuring scalable, efficient, and future-proof solutions across global data center sites.
Oversee design reviews and validation processes to ensure adherence to project specifications and regulatory compliance.
Project Management:
Collaborate with project managers to set clear milestones, timelines, and budgets.
Manage the end-to-end design lifecycle, from conceptualization through construction and operational handover.
Identify and mitigate project risks, keeping all stakeholders informed of project status, issues, and resolutions.
Stakeholder Collaboration:
Act as the primary liaison with key stakeholders, including architects, engineers, construction teams, and IT operations.
Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to ensure the integration of high-quality, cost-effective materials and systems.
Engage with clients to understand their needs and translate them into design solutions that align with business and technical objectives.
Technical Expertise:
Ensure that designs meet high standards for redundancy, efficiency, and scalability.
Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and sustainability practices.
Provide technical guidance on power and cooling systems, network infrastructure, fire protection, and security design.
Team Leadership and Mentorship:
Build and mentor a high-performing team of architects, designers, and engineers.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability.
Conduct regular performance reviews and provide professional development opportunities.
Quality Assurance & Compliance:
Oversee quality assurance processes to meet regulatory and company standards for safety and environmental impact.
Ensure compliance with regional, national, and international codes and standards related to data center construction and operation.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related field.
10+ years of experience in data center design and architecture, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Strong knowledge of data center infrastructure, including power, cooling, network, and security systems.
Proven experience managing multi-million-dollar data center projects from design to operational handover.
Proficiency in design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and project management tools.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Here at Amber Labs, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace for all. Our commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion includes:
Valuing the unique experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of all employees and creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and valued.
Prohibiting all forms of harassment, bullying, discrimination, and victimisation and promoting a culture of dignity and respect for all.
Educating all new hires on our Diversity and Inclusion policies and ensuring they are aware of their rights and responsibilities to create a safe and inclusive workplace.
By taking these steps, we are dedicated to building a workplace that reflects and celebrates the diversity of our employees and communities.
What Happens Next?
Our Talent Acquisition Team will be in touch to advise you on the next steps. We have a two-stage interview process for most of our consultants. In certain cases, we may include a third and final stage, which is a conversation with the company Partners. This will only be considered if deemed necessary.