Data Center Design Manager

Design Manager – Data Centers (Milan, ItalyPermanentCompetitive Salary (Negotiable based on experience)(Minimum of 5 years of experience in data centres design, focusing on CSA and MEP systems development)About the RoleA leading global real estate developer and investor specializing in logistics and infrastructure is expanding its portfolio into cutting-edge data center developments. We are seeking an experienced Design Manager based in Milan to play a pivotal role in our expanding Data Center project team.You will lead multidisciplinary design efforts (CSA, MEP, Firefighting) from inception through construction, managing external engineering firms, tracking budgets/schedules, and ensuring high-quality, sustainable, and compliant hyperscale or colocation data centre solutions.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign & Integration Management: Coordinate and integrate all critical systems (power, cooling, IT, security, firefighting) with Civil, Structural, and Architectural (CSA) elements. Manage projects from inception through RIBA Stage 3, ensuring 100% compliance with client and end-user requirements.Procurement & Consultant Management: Prepare and execute Architectural/Engineering agreements. Lead RFIs/RFPs for design services, review consultant invoices, and manage project design budgets and value engineering initiatives.Contractor Oversight (RIBA 4 & 5): Supervise the General Contractor’s technical design and construction phases. Conduct rigorous QA/QC reviews of design submissions to ensure alignment with Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Ensure all design solutions fully comply with Italian and European laws, industry standards (TIER, IEC, etc.), and environmental/ESG certifications (BREEAM, LEED).Pre-Development Support: Create basic drawings and preliminary layouts to assess the buildability of potential sites during due diligence.Qualifications & SkillsEducation: Master’s Degree in Engineering (Building, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, or IT).Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in data centre design, with a heavy focus on CSA and MEP systems. Proven track record leading complex, multi-disciplinary design teams for hyperscale or colocation projects.Local Expertise: Advanced knowledge of Italian urban planning, building permits, firefighting, and environmental authorization procedures.Technical Skills: Strong command of project delivery frameworks (RIBA), contract management, and interpreting complex construction drawings, budgets, and schedules.Certifications: PMP or PgMP certification is a strong plus.Languages: Fluent in English and Italian (highly preferred for local regulatory navigation).