Project Manager - Datacenter (10-12 yrs)

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager - Data Center to lead and manage the implementation and operations of a critical Data Center (DC) for one of our key government projects.

This role will be responsible for overseeing the entire Operations & Maintenance (O&M) process, managing all aspects of site infrastructure (both IT and non-IT), and serving as the primary point of contact for government agencies regarding Data Center operations.

Key Responsibilities :

- Lead the implementation and operations of the Data Center, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.

- Manage all O&M processes and ensure that the Data Center operates at optimum efficiency with minimal downtime.

- Act as the single point of contact for the government regarding all Data Center interactions, ensuring clear and timely communication.

- Supervise the entire site infrastructure, including both IT and non-IT components, ensuring reliability, security, and compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.

- Oversee manpower management for the Data Center project, including managing internal teams, contractors, and third-party vendors.

- Ensure that site inventory is managed effectively and that a log of any changes to DC equipment is maintained.

- Serve as the primary liaison between the company and the government, addressing any concerns, queries, or requirements regarding Data Center operations.

- Prepare and approve reports and major change requests, ensuring they are accurate, comprehensive, and submitted to the government for approval.

- Lead and facilitate weekly in-house review meetings to monitor progress, address challenges, and ensure alignment with project timelines and deliverables.

- Take ownership of OEM escalation processes to ensure that critical spares and services are available on-demand, reducing potential downtime and disruptions.

- Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to ensure 24/7 support and availability of services, meeting SLAs (Service Level Agreements) and performance targets.

- Enforce IT security policies and physical security protocols for the Data Center, ensuring that both infrastructure and data are protected from unauthorized access, theft, and breaches.

- Take on the role of Physical Security Manager to ensure that all physical security measures (e., surveillance systems, access control) are implemented and maintained effectively.

- Ensure the compliance of the Data Center with local regulations, security standards, and government requirements related to infrastructure and data protection.

- Lead a cross-functional team of engineers, IT professionals, and support staff, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.

- Monitor and assess team performance, providing the necessary support and resources to ensure high-quality service delivery and operational efficiency.

- Promote a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging the team to adopt best practices, innovative technologies, and proactive problem-solving.

Required Qualifications :

- Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in Data Center implementation, operations, and management, with a proven track record of leading successful projects.

- Strong experience in managing large-scale Data Center operations with an emphasis on O&M (Operations & Maintenance).

- Previous experience working with government clients is a significant advantage.

- Experience in managing Data Center infrastructure (both IT and non-IT), including hardware, networking, power supply, and physical security systems.

- PMP (Project Management Professional) or Prince2 certification is required.

Key Skills :

- Project Management : Proven experience in managing large-scale, multi-phase projects, including scheduling, resource allocation, risk management, and reporting.

- Technical Expertise : In-depth understanding of Data Center technologies, IT infrastructure, and enterprise IT systems.

- Vendor Management : Strong experience managing OEMs, third-party vendors, and contractors to ensure timely delivery of services and resources.

- Security & Compliance : Expertise in physical and IT security management, ensuring adherence to government regulations, industry standards (e., ISO 27001, ITIL), and best practices.

- Communication Skills : Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with government officials, vendors, and internal teams.

- Problem-Solving & Decision Making : Ability to make timely decisions in high-pressure situations, including escalation management and conflict resolution