Data Center Development Lead

Key Responsibilities

• Define UK AIDC site selection criteria and screening matrix, focusing on critical factors including power capacity, substation proximity, fiber optic access, water resources, and local tax incentives.
• Own the end-to-end site development pipeline: from initial site identification and land securing, to power application, planning permission acquisition, and comprehensive site package preparation.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with hyperscalers (AWS/Azure/Google/OVH, etc.) and specialist data center developers in the UK and Europe, proactively identifying potential buyers and partnership opportunities.
• Represent the company in communications and coordination with UK regulatory bodies (Ofgem), local governments, and relevant economic zones, ensuring compliance with local policies and smooth project advancement.
• Build and lead a 2–3 person development team, set clear annual site development targets, and drive the team to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs).

Requirements

• 8+ years of relevant experience in data center development, large-scale industrial land development, or energy infrastructure development.
• Proficient understanding of core technical parameters for data center site selection, including MW power demand, PUE, cooling methods, and network latency.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering data center or large-scale industrial development projects in the UK or Western Europe.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken) for effective engagement with international clients, buyers, and regulatory bodies; additional European language skills are a plus.
• Extensive experience in negotiating large-scale land or industrial property transactions, with a strong ability to secure favorable terms.

Preferred / Bonus

• Existing working relationships with hyperscalers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, or OVH, with a proven ability to collaborate on data center projects.
• In-depth understanding of the differences in power density and infrastructure requirements between AIDC (AI Data Centers) and conventional cloud data centers.
• Familiarity with UK planning permission processes and energy regulatory policies (Ofgem) is highly preferred.