Senior Development Manager - Data Centres

OXBO; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading developer in data centres is seeking a Senior Development Manager to oversee the lifecycle of major data centre projects. This role requires 8+ years in infrastructure development, strong leadership, and negotiation skills. You will work alongside specialists and have the autonomy to drive strategy and commercial outcomes. Excellent communication and flexibility to travel across the UK are essential. This high-impact position offers an exciting opportunity to influence project success.

Qualifications

• 8+ years’ experience in data centre or infrastructure development.
• Proven leadership in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Strong negotiation, commercial, and strategic-thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple high-value development projects ensuring alignment with business strategy.
• Drive land acquisition and negotiate complex agreements.
• Manage planning and permitting processes engaging with local authorities.
• Oversee grid connection strategy with internal experts and operators.

Skills

Project management

Negotiation

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

Degree in Planning, Real Estate, or related discipline

Job description

I’m partnering with a rapidly growing, well-funded developer that is delivering large-scale, low-carbon data centre campuses across Europe. This organisation has an exceptional track record in infrastructure development and is now expanding its UK portfolio.

They are looking for an experienced Senior Development Manager to help lead and shape their next phase of growth.

This is a high-impact role suited to someone who thrives in a strategic, fast-paced environment and is comfortable overseeing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.

The Opportunity

In this senior position, you will take ownership of the full lifecycle of major data centre development projects - from site identification through to delivery. You’ll work alongside specialists in planning, grid, land, finance, and technical disciplines, with the autonomy to influence development strategy and drive commercial outcomes.

What You’ll Do

• Lead multiple high-value development projects, ensuring alignment with overall business strategy.
• Drive land acquisition, negotiate complex agreements, and secure long-term site control.
• Manage planning and permitting processes, engaging closely with local authorities and regulators.
• Oversee grid connection strategy in collaboration with internal experts and external network operators.
• Provide strategic input across site selection, masterplanning, and technical feasibility.
• Work with finance teams to shape investment models and assess коммерческой viability.
• Lead due diligence for acquisitions and partnerships, coordinating with legal, technical, and financial advisors.
• Oversee governance, including budgeting, risk, compliance, and reporting.
• Mentor and support junior development team members.

What You’ll Bring

• 8+ years’ experience in data centre, or infrastructure development.
• Proven leadership in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Strong negotiation, commercial, and strategic-thinking skills.
• Degree in Planning, Real Estate, or a related discipline.
• Solid understanding of UK land negotiations and planning frameworks (TCPA/DCO)
• Excellent communication skills and confidence engaging with senior external stakeholders.
• Flexibility to travel across the UK, with occasional visits to Ireland or London offices.