Cluster Project Head/Associate Vice President

Purpose of the Job:

The Cluster Project Head (AVP) will be the single point of accountability and ownership for the successful delivery of multiple data center construction projects within a designated cluster.

This role requires a highly experienced and results-oriented leader with a proven track record in managing large-scale, complex projects, particularly within the data center industry.

The Cluster Head will oversee all aspects of the projects, from planning and design through construction, commissioning, and handover, ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.

This role demands exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, as well as a deep understanding of data center infrastructure, including civil, MEP, and ELV systems.

Key Responsibilities:

- Project Leadership & Management: Provide overall leadership and direction for all projects within the cluster, ensuring successful execution and timely completion within budget and scope.

- Develop and implement project plans, schedules, and budgets.

- Monitor progress, identify and mitigate risks, and implement corrective actions as needed.

- Manage the entire project lifecycle from inception to handover.

- Capex Management & Budgeting: Develop and manage capital expenditure (Capex) budgets for the cluster, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficient resource allocation.

- Track spending, analyze variances, and implement cost control measures.

- Prepare and present budget reports to senior management.

- Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including global customers, internal teams (engineering, operations, finance, legal), contractors, vendors, and local authorities.

- Effectively communicate project status, risks, and issues to all stakeholders.

- Manage expectations and ensure alignment.

- Vendor Management: Oversee the selection, contracting, and performance of vendors and subcontractors.

- Negotiate contracts, manage vendor relationships, and ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.

- Monitor vendor performance and address any issues promptly.

- Safety Management: Champion a strong safety culture across all project sites within the cluster.

- Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and company policies.

- Implement safety programs and procedures, conduct regular safety audits, and promote a safe working environment.

- Quality Management: Implement and enforce quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes to ensure that all projects meet the required quality standards.

- Oversee testing and commissioning activities.

- Address any quality issues promptly and effectively.

- Contract Management: Manage all contracts related to the projects within the cluster, ensuring compliance with legal and contractual obligations.

- Review and negotiate contracts, monitor contract performance, and address any contract disputes.

- Regulatory Compliance: Maintain a thorough understanding of all applicable regulations and codes related to data center construction and operations.

- Ensure that all projects comply with these requirements.

- Work with local authorities to obtain necessary permits and approvals.

- Team Leadership & Development: Lead and manage a team of project professionals, providing guidance, coaching, and mentoring.

- Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.

- Develop the skills and capabilities of team members.

- Global Customer Management: Effectively manage relationships with global customers, understanding their needs and expectations.

- Provide regular project updates and ensure customer satisfaction.

- Data Center Infrastructure Expertise: Demonstrate a deep understanding of data center infrastructure, including civil works, MEP systems (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), ELV systems (extra-low voltage), and related technologies.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in related field.

- Master's degree preferred.

- 15-20 years of experience in project management, with a significant portion of that experience in data center construction.

- Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale, complex projects.

- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

- Excellent stakeholder management skills, including experience managing global customers.

- Deep understanding of data center infrastructure, including civil, MEP, and ELV systems.

- Experience in Capex management, budgeting, and cost control.

- Strong vendor management and contract negotiation skills.

- Knowledge of safety regulations and quality management processes.

- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

- Willingness to travel as required