Head Of IT (Data Centres)

Our client, a global data centre player that is growing fast, is looking for a head of IT.

You will play a pivotal role in shaping and leading the IT function for the company's data centres. You will be responsible for designing, deploying, and managing the technology infrastructure of the company's data centres. You will oversee all aspects of IT, including architecture & design, cybersecurity, compliance (ISO 27001, SOC 2, etc.), and operational excellence to ensure the seamless performance of the data centre portfolio.

Key Responsibilities:

• 
  

  Strategy & Planning: Develop and execute the overall IT strategy for the data centres, aligning with the company's broader business objectives. This includes long-term planning for scalability, resilience, and future technology adoption.

  
  


• 
  

  Design & Build: Lead the IT and OT design and implementation for new data centre projects, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and compliance requirements. This involves selecting appropriate technologies and systems, including BMS & EPMS, overseeing vendor relationships, and managing budgets effectively.

  
  


• 
  

  Operations & Maintenance: Establish and manage the ongoing operation and maintenance of the data centre IT and OT infrastructure, ensuring high availability, performance, and security. Develop and implement robust monitoring, incident response, and disaster recovery plans.

  
  


• 
  

  Cybersecurity: Develop and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to protect data and systems. This includes risk assessments, security audits, vulnerability management, and incident response procedures to comply with customer obligations and government regulations.

  
  


• 
  

  Compliance & Certification: Lead the process of achieving and maintaining relevant certifications, such as ISO 27001, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and standards.

  
  


• 
  

  Team Building & Leadership: Build and lead a high-performing IT team, defining roles and responsibilities, providing mentorship and development opportunities, and fostering a collaborative and innovative culture.

  
  


• 
  

  Vendor Management: Manage relationships with key technology vendors, negotiating contracts, and ensuring service level agreements are met.

  
  


• 
  

  Budget Management: Develop and manage the IT budget for the data centres, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficient resource allocation.

  
  


• 
  

  Innovation & Technology: Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends, identifying opportunities to improve the data centre's IT infrastructure and services.

  
  

Key Qualifications & Experience:

• 
  

  Extensive experience (10+ years) in IT leadership roles within data centre development, cloud infrastructure, or enterprise IT environments.

  
  


• 
  

  Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.

  
  


• 
  

  Proven expertise in designing, deploying, and managing large-scale IT infrastructure in data centre environments.

  
  


• 
  

  Deep knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, risk management, and compliance standards (ISO 27001, SOC 2, NIST, etc.).

  
  


• 
  

  Strong track record of building and leading high-performing IT teams in fast-paced, complex environments.

  
  


• 
  

  Experience managing and securing mission critical operational technology environments.

  
  


• 
  

  Hands-on experience with network architecture, cloud technologies, and data centre operations.

  
  


• 
  

  Strategic mindset with the ability to translate business goals into technical solutions.

  
  


• 
  

  Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at Executive levels.

  
  


• 
  

  Relevant industry certifications (CISSP, CCIE, ITIL, etc.) are desirable.