Overview
About VIRTUS
VIRTUS Data Centres is the UK’s fastest-growing data centre provider. We own, design, build, and operate some of the most energy-efficient, flexible, and secure data centres in Europe. In 2023, we announced our expansion into continental Europe, starting with Berlin and Milan and growing across the region. At VIRTUS, we aim to be a positive force in the fourth industrial revolution—delivering innovative solutions while staying rooted in our values: Care, Helpful, Pride, Reliability and Dedication.
Job Summary
The Vice President of Design will be responsible for leading all aspects of data centre design across new builds, expansions, and retrofit programs. This senior leadership role requires a forward-thinking design leader with deep technical knowledge, a strong commercial mindset, and the ability to build and guide high-performing internal and external design teams. The VP of Design will ensure design excellence, innovation, and cost-efficiency while aligning with VIRTUS’s sustainability and operational goals.
Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership
- Define and implement the global design strategy for VIRTUS data centre programs across the UK and Europe.
- Act as the design authority, ensuring all designs meet business, operational, and sustainability objectives.
- Provide strategic input into master planning, site selection, and infrastructure innovation.
- Design Delivery
- Oversee the end-to-end design process from concept to IFC (Issued for Construction) across all projects.
- Lead multidisciplinary design reviews, ensuring compliance with local codes, regulations, and company standards.
- Drive consistency and standardization across the design portfolio while allowing for regional flexibility.
- Team Management & Collaboration
- Build and manage an internal design team and network of external design consultants and engineering partners.
- Collaborate closely with development, construction, operations, sustainability, and commercial teams.
- Provide mentorship and technical leadership across engineering, architectural, and MEP design disciplines.
- Innovation & Sustainability
- Champion design innovation, automation, and modular solutions to support scalable, future-ready data centre platforms.
- Integrate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals into design strategies, supporting VIRTUS’s Net Zero ambitions.
- Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving customer requirements to inform design evolution.
- Risk & Cost Management
- Support capital budgeting processes, ensuring design solutions balance cost, quality, and schedule.
- Identify and mitigate design risks early in the development process.
- Drive value engineering initiatives without compromising performance or reliability.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, or a related technical discipline; advanced degree or chartership preferred.
- 15+ years of experience in mission-critical facility design, with at least 5 in a senior leadership capacity.
- Proven track record in leading the design of hyperscale or colocation data centres in EMEA or global markets.
- Deep knowledge of MEP systems, building services, critical infrastructure, and sustainability principles.
- Experienced in managing large-scale CAPEX programs and external design consultants.
- Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
Desirable Skills
- Familiarity with international building codes and regional permitting requirements across Europe.
- Experience with digital design tools (e.g., Revit, BIM360), design automation, and design-to-construction workflows.
- Knowledge of sustainability certifications (LEED, BREEAM, or equivalent).
- Passion for innovation, continuous improvement, and building high-performance teams.
Why Join VIRTUS
At VIRTUS, you will shape the next generation of digital infrastructure while being part of a collaborative and values-driven team. We are committed to excellence, innovation, and sustainability in everything we do—and to building an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse world we serve.
Additional Information
In line with VIRTUS’ Vetting Policy, the successful applicant must be willing to undergo a BS7858 screening process.
VIRTUS is an equal opportunity employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.
We reserve the right to close this post for applications should sufficient applications be received.
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
VIRTUS Data Centres does not accept unsolicited support from search firms for employment openings. CVs/resumes submitted by search firms to any VIRTUS employee without an active, written search agreement for a specified role will become the property of VIRTUS. No fees will be paid for candidates hired from agency submissions made without such an agreement. Existing agency partnerships must adhere to position-specific terms outlined in their agreements. Please refrain from calling or emailing regarding this matter.
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