VP of Operations

Socket.dev; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking a VP of Operations to lead day-to-day colocation data center operations, drive strategic direction, and ensure top-tier reliability, security, and service delivery. You will report to the SVP Operations and oversee policy implementation, facilities maintenance, and performance optimization.

The role requires 7+ years in data center ops, strong leadership, regulatory knowledge, and a track record of continuous improvement. Based in Chantilly, VA with on-site responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in CS, Engineering, Business, or related field.
• 7+ years in data center operations management with leadership experience.
• Experience with P&L management and vendor negotiations.
• In-depth knowledge of data center infrastructure (power, HVAC, networking, security).
• Familiarity with industry standards and certifications (SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA).
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Certifications like CDCDP or CDCMP are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction for operational functions of colocation data centers.
• Develop and implement operational policies and standards for performance and compliance.
• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and customer service.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Data center operations

Regulatory compliance

Cross-functional collaboration

Process optimization

Team development

Analytical problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in CS/Engineering/Business or related field

Job description

Job Description:

As the VP of Operations for our colocation data centers, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of our facilities. Reporting directly to the SVP Operations, you will be responsible for ensuring the efficient functioning of all operational aspects, maintaining high standards of reliability, security, and service delivery while driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership:
   1. Provide strategic direction and leadership for the operational functions of colocation data centers.
   2. Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and standards to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulatory requirements.
   3. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability among operational teams with an obsession towards superior customer service.
2. Facility Management:
   1. Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of all physical infrastructure, including power systems, cooling systems, networking equipment, and security systems.
   2. Coordinate with engineering and facilities management teams to ensure uninterrupted operation of critical infrastructure.
   3. Interface with construction teams to engineer, propose, and build/ expand data centers.
   4. Implement best practices for safety programs, operational integrity, energy efficiency, sustainability, and environmental management.
3. Service Delivery:
   1. Ensure the highest levels of service availability and reliability for clients, meeting or exceeding SLAs (Service Level Agreements).
   2. Collaborate with sales and service delivery teams to understand client requirements and deliver customized solutions.
   3. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics to identify areas for improvement and optimize service delivery processes.
   4. Responsible for maintaining high customer retention, satisfaction, and managing customer expectations.
4. Financial Management:
   1. Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets for colocation datacenter sites, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives and financial targets.
   2. Monitor financial performance against budgeted targets, analyzing variances and implementing corrective actions as needed.
   3. Ensure all tenant improvement costs are passed through to clients.
5. Risk Management and Compliance:
   1. Develop and maintain comprehensive risk management strategies to mitigate potential threats to data center operations, including security breaches, equipment failures, and natural disasters.
   2. Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and certifications relevant to colocation data center operations (e.g., SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA).
6. Team Development and Management:
   1. Recruit, train, and mentor high-performing teams of operational professionals, fostering their professional growth, development, and retention.
   2. Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations for team members, promoting a culture of continuous learning, improvement, and customer service.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, Business Administration, or other related field; advanced degree preferred.
2. Proven experience (7+ years) in data center operations management, with a track record of success in leading teams and driving operational excellence.
3. Experience with P&L management and negotiating with vendors to contract signature
4. In-depth knowledge of data center infrastructure, including power distribution, HVAC systems, networking technologies, controls, and physical security protocols.
5. Strong understanding of industry standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in data center operations and management.
6. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across organizational boundaries.
7. Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on driving continuous improvement and innovation.
8. Certifications such as Certified Data Centre Design Professional (CDCDP) or Certified Data Centre Management Professional (CDCMP) are highly desirable.
9. Proven project management skills.