Data Centre Design Manager

The Design Project; Greater London; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm is seeking a skilled Data Centre Design Manager to oversee design, engineering, and construction for data centers in London. The role demands a blend of technical expertise and robust project management skills, focusing on managing large-scale projects. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Architecture and 5-10 years of relevant experience. This position offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, emphasizing quality and safety in design.

Benefits

Health and wellness programs

Paid time off and holidays

Retirement savings plans

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in data center design and construction.
• Ability to manage large-scale data center projects effectively.
• Strong track record in design management and technical oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering scope, schedule, and budget for complex data center projects.
• Manage internal and external resources to deliver high-quality designs.
• Ensure compliance with local building codes and safety standards.

Skills

Excellent communication

Leadership

Project management

Knowledge of local building codes

Proficiency in MS Office

Contract negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Architecture

Tools

Data center design software

Job description

Job Title: Data Centre Design ManagerCompany: MicrosoftLocation: Milan, Italy; London, United KingdomJob Type: Full-TimeCategory: Data Centre Operations & EngineeringDate Posted: January 14, 2026Experience Level: 5-10 YearsRemote Status: On-site

• Lead the engineering scope, schedule, and budget for complex data center construction and lease projects kip across EMEA, primarily focusing on greenfield, brownfield, and retrofit initiatives.
• Drive the technical design and development of core data center infrastructure, including building shell/core, power, cooling, telecom, and controls systems, ensuring alignment with Microsoft's IT capacity roadmap.
• Manage internal and external resources, including consultants, architects, and engineers, to deliver high-quality, safe, and efficient data center designs.
• Collaborate with key Microsoft stakeholders and external vendors specializing in data center architecture and engineering to ensure project success.
• Oversee the delivery of multiple concurrent design solutions, ensuring they meet project scopes, schedules, and budgets while adhering to Microsoft's stringent quality and safety standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical within Microsoft's Cloud Operations and Innovation (CO&I) division, specifically the Datacenter Engineering (DCE) team. The emphasis on "building the cloud datacenters that power the world’s largest online services" highlights the significant impact and scale of this position. The role demands a blend of technical expertise in data center design and robust project/program management capabilities, with a strong focus on managing external design partners and internal stakeholders.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the engineering scope, schedule, and budget for greenfield, brownfield, and retrofit engineering/design projects through all project stages, from site due diligence to construction, within Italy and other EMEA locations as assigned.
• Lead internal and external resources in performing land technical due diligence, securing construction permits, and designing the building shell/core, power, cooling, telecom, and controls infrastructure.
• Provide comprehensive design management, technical direction, decision-making, and.Arrays://? overall leadership for the data center architectural and engineering designs.
• Oversee the delivery of multiple, concurrent, complete data center design solutions, ensuring alignment with project scopes, schedules, and budgets.
• Manage the design deliverables from Microsoft's consultants (architects, engineers, and designers) to ensure adherence to project requirements and Microsoft standards.
• Engage effectively with key Microsoft stakeholder groups and external vendors specializing in data center architecture and engineering to foster collaboration and ensure successful project outcomes.
• Ensure all designs comply with local building codes, regulations, and jurisdictional standards, while maintaining a strong focus on safety and quality.
• Lead teams of engineers in advanced engineering and operational processes and procedures relevant to large data center environments.
• Conduct contract negotiations with a solid understanding of value-added ideas without compromising safety and quality of deliverables.
• Prepare and present project updates, technical designs, and reports using Microsoft Office packages.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required to support project needs.
• Manage large-scale projects (e.g., 100MW per project) delivering Design Build and Design Bid Build type projects.
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• Demonstrate a strong track record in data center/mission-critical design and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to managing the entire design lifecycle of data center projects. The mention of "100MW per project" indicates the immense scale, requiring sophisticated project management and technical oversight. The need to manage "greenfield, brownfield and retrofit" projects suggests adaptability and experience across different project types. The requirement to declaratively lead teams of engineers and handle contract negotiation points to a significant leadership and commercial acumen component.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Architecture, or equivalent experience in construction/design management.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in data center design and construction.

Required Skills:

• Excellent communication, retina, and leadership skills.
• High level of proficiency in commercial and industrial architecture and engineering, with a primary focus on data center design.
• Ability to work effectively with other technical and non-technical groups in a fast-paced environment with an even temperament.
• High integrity, methodical approach, detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
• Ability to lead teams of engineers in advanced engineering and operational processes and procedures for large data center environments.
• Contract negotiation skills with a solid understanding of value-added ideas without compromising safety and quality.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment; resilient, forward-looking with an open mindset.
• Knowledge of local building codes/lounge regulations, and jurisdictional standards in relevant EMEA regions.
• Proficiency in MS Office packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
• Ability to travel domestотно and internationally.
• Experience in managing large-scale projects (e.g., 100MW per project) using Design Build and Design Bid Build methodologies.
• Proven experience in running technical site due diligence programs.
• Demonstrated track record in data center/mission-critical design.

Preferred келет:

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Experience with specific data center design software and modeling tools.
• Familiarity with international building codes and standards.
• Experience managing projects across multiple EMEA countries.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and energy efficiency in data centers.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a strong blend of technical engineering/architecture expertise and project management leadership. The emphasis on "high level of proficiency in commercial and industrial architecture and engineering with a primary focus on datacenter design" indicates that candidates must have deep domain knowledge. The requirement for "excellent communication, organization, and leadership skills" alongside the ability to work in a "fast-paced environment" suggests that soft skills are as crucial as technical ones. The explicit mention of "Microsoft Cloud Background Check" is a critical screening requirement.

• Showcase examples of managing theerenade...
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Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a structured approach to managing engineering and design documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Illustrate experience in developing and implementing design standards and best practices for data center infrastructure.
• Show how design changes and scope adjustments were managed and communicated to stakeholders.
• Provide examples of risk assessment and mitigation strategies applied during the design phase.
• Detail experience in coordinating design efforts across multiple disciplines (e.g., structural, MEP, IT infrastructure).

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated in the protesta raw job description, a strong portfolio is paramount for a Design Manager role. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that illustrate their ability to manage complex design processes, handle technical challenges, lead teams, and deliver projects on time and within budget. The portfolio should reflect a deep understanding of data center infrastructure and project lifecycle management.

Salary Range:

• For Milan, Italy: Estimated €70,000 - €105,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
• For London, United Kingdom: Estimated £75,000 - £115,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Commercitive health and wellness programs.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Retirement savings plans with company matching.
• Employee stock purchase program.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Access to Microsoft's extensive internal learning resources.
• Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
• Opportunities for international travel and exposure.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and demands. Occasional overtime may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are estimates based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Milan and London, considering the experience level (5-10 years) and the prestigious employer (Microsoft). These figures are indicative and can vary based on specific qualifications, negotiation, and the precise scope of responsibilities. Benefits are standard for a large tech company like Microsoft, with a focus on employee well-being, financial security, and professional growth. The role is inherently on-site, requiring full-time commitment.

Industry: Technology (Cloud Computing, Software, Hardware)Company Size: Microsoft is a large enterprise, employing over 220,000 individuals globally. This scale offers extensive resources, opportunities for cross-functional collaboration, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies.Founded: 1975, by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Microsoft has a long history of innovation, evolving from personal computing software to becoming a dominant force in cloud computing, gaming, and AI.

Team Structure:

• The Datacenter Engineering (DCE) team is part of the Cloud Operations and Innovation (CO&I) division.
• The role reports to the Datacenter Engineering Southern EMEA DM Lead and the South East Sub-Regional DM Lead, indicating a hierarchical structure with clear reporting lines.
• This position involves managing internal and external resources, suggesting a matrixed environment where collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT capacity planning, procurement, legal) and external partners is essential.
• The culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, as highlighted by Microsoft's values.

Methodology:

• Data аласыз Decision Making: Projects are guided by data analysis to ensure alignment with Microsoft's IT capacity roadmap and business objectives.
• Agile Project Management Principles: While not explicitly stated, the fast-paced environment and need for adaptability suggest adoption of agile or hybrid project management methodologies.
• Standardized Design Processes: Emphasis on managing design deliverables, adhering to building codes, and ensuring quality and safety implies a structured, process-oriented approach to design and construction.
• Continuous Improvement: The focus on innovation and building future cloud infrastructure encourages a mindset of continuous learning and process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft's culture is known for its emphasis on growth mindset, collaboration, and innovation. For an operations and engineering role like this, understanding how Microsoft drives large-scale projects, manages complex supply chains, and ensures operational excellence is key. The company’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practices will also be integral to its operations.

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-to-senior level management position within the Datacenter Engineering domain. It signifies a role with significant responsibility for technical execution, project delivery, and team leadership. The scope involves managing large, complex, and high-value infrastructure projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to two leads: the Datacenter Engineering Southern EMEA DM Lead and the South East Sub-Regional DM Lead. This dual reporting structure suggests a need for strong communication and alignment with multiple leadership priorities within the EMEA region.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on Microsoft's ability to scale its cloud services. By successfully designing and overseeing the construction of data centers, the Design Manager ensures the physical infrastructure required for Azure, Microsoft 365, and other cloud offerings is robust, efficient, and available. This directly supports revenue generation and the company's strategic growth in the cloud market.

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into senior leadership roles managing larger geographical regions or broader portfolios within Datacenter Engineering or Cloud Operations.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced cooling technologies, sustainable data center design, or critical power systems.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to transition into related roles within Microsoft's broader infrastructure, real estate, or operations divisions.
• Global Exposure: Continued opportunities to work on international projects, gaining diverse experience across different regulatory environments and logistical challenges.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and designers, contributing to the development of future talent within Microsoft's operations.

stoppen Note: The career path for(Graphical Data Center Design Manager) increases scope and responsibility. The role is a stepping stone to principal engineer, regional director of=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= etc. (Trimmed for brevity)

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site, requiring the Design Manager to be present at project sites, design team offices, and potentially Microsoft offices for collaboration and meetings. The nature of data center design and construction management necessitates a physical presence and direct oversight.

Office Location(s): The position is based in Milan, Italy, or London, әрі tarjoaa the locations across EMEA with responsibilities extending across the region.

Workspace Context:

• Field and Office Hybrid: Expect a blend of time spent in design studios or project offices, and frequent site visits to construction locations. This requires adaptability to different working environments.
• Collaborative Spaces: Access to collaborative meeting rooms and project management tools will be essential for coordinating with design teams, stakeholders, and contractors.
• Technology Enabled: Microsoft provides robust technology and tools to support project management, communication, and design reviews, enabling efficient remote collaboration when needed.
• Dynamic Environment: The work environment is fast-paced and can be demanding, typical of large-scale construction projects with tight deadlines.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the demands of construction professional often require flexibility, including occasional long hours, weekend work, or extended travel to meet critical milestones and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical for this role, given the nature of managing physical construction projects. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that involves significant travel and a hands-on approach to overseeing design and construction activities. Adaptability and close collaboration with diverse teams is paramount.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a Talent Acquisition Specialist will review applications and conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion to evaluate technical expertise, project management experience, leadership style, and cultural fit.
• Technical/Panel Interview(s): Interviews with senior engineers, architects, and possibly other Design Managers to focus on technical depth, design challenges, and methodology.
• Portfolio Review: Dedicated session for candidates to present selected case studies from their portfolio, demonstrating experience and impact on prior projects.
• Final Interview/Executive Interview: Senior lead interview to assess strategic thinking and fit with the Microsoft leadership principles.

Finalize... (continuing but trimmed for brevity)