Operations Manager - Data Centres

CBRE Excellerate; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

CBRE Excellerate is seeking an Operations Manager for our Data Center to ensure seamless, uninterrupted operation of critical engineering systems such as power, cooling, and network infrastructure. You will lead a team of technicians and align all activities with SLAs and regulatory standards to maintain uptime and reliability.

You will implement preventive maintenance, drive continuous improvement, manage budgets, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet evolving business needs in a

Qualifications

• 3–5 years' proven experience in data center operations and maintenance.
• Trade certification or equivalent qualification in HVAC/electrical/mechanical.
• Driver’s License (required).
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage, motivate and develop a team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the data center facility, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted operation of critical engineering systems.
• Develop and implement maintenance strategies to optimize system performance and minimize downtime.
• Lead and manage a team of technicians, providing training, guidance, and support.
• Implement preventive maintenance programs and corrective actions to ensure system reliability.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections of critical systems, identifying potential issues and proactively addressing them.
• Manage vendor and contractor relationships, ensuring SLAs are met.
• Communicate with clients and stakeholders, providing updates on system performance and addressing concerns.
• Monitor and manage risk, including safety protocols and emergency response plans.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging emerging technologies and industry best practices.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Prepare and manage budgets related to data center operations and maintenance.

Skills

HVAC systems

Electrical systems

Mechanical systems

Leadership

Budgeting

IT literacy

SLA compliance

Safety regulations

Vendor management

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Trade certification

Tools

MS Office

BAS (Building Automation Systems)

Job description

Who We Are

We are the market leader in commercial real estate services and investments and provide an integrated suite of high-quality real estate services to our clients across Africa and the Middle East, including facilities management, advisory & transaction services, project management. We support predominantly corporate clients who buy services on a contracted basis all across the Middle East and Africa - even globally, depending on their portfolio. We manage the maintenance of Data Centres and is committed to the provision of an efficient and effective critical engineering maintenance service. The primary function is to ensure 100% uptime of engineering services to ensure there is zero impact to the client’s business operations.

Why choose us

Imagine more than just the future of work; with CBRE Excellerate, you can create it. As part of our global powerhouse, you'll find a culture that fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, where your best work is not just encouraged but celebrated. Collaborate with talented individuals, harness the support of unparalleled resources, and enjoy the journey as you grow both personally and professionally.

About The Role

As the Operations Manager for our Data Center, you will be responsible for ensuring the seamless and uninterrupted operation of our facility. You will oversee the daily management of all critical engineering systems, including power, cooling, and network infrastructure, while ensuring the highest standards of safety, security, and compliance are met. Your role will be pivotal in maintaining operational excellence and driving continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include ensuring that all systems and processes align with service level agreements (SLAs) and regulatory standards, ultimately contributing to the reliability and uptime of the data center. You will lead a team of skilled technicians and collaborate across functions to continuously enhance operations, meet evolving business needs, and exceed customer expectations.

What You Will Bring

• Trade certification or equivalent qualification in a relevant field (e.g., HVAC, electrical, mechanical).
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field (strongly recommended).
• 3 – 5 years' proven experience in data center operations and maintenance, with a strong track record in managing critical systems.
• Driver’s License (required).
• Experience in implementing and executing preventive maintenance programs and corrective actions.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage, motivate, and develop a team.
• Proficiency in budgeting, financial management, and IT literacy (MS Office).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Effective communication skills for client and stakeholder interaction.
• Ability to proactively identify issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• In-depth understanding of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other utilities.
• Expertise in service-level agreements (SLAs) and ensuring vendors meet agreed-upon standards.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations (e.g., ASHRAE, TIA-942).
• Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS) and project management protocols (Desirable).
• Knowledge of safety protocols, risk management, and emergency response plans.
• Understanding of emerging technologies and best practices in data center operations.
• Expertise in managing vendor and contractor relationships for equipment maintenance, hardware replacement, and emergency repairs.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations specific to data center operations.

What You Will Be Doing

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the data center facility, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted operation of critical engineering systems (e.g., power, cooling, and network infrastructure).
• Develop and implement maintenance strategies to optimize system performance and minimize downtime.
• Lead and manage a team of technicians, providing training, guidance, and support.
• Implement preventive maintenance programs and corrective actions to ensure system reliability.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections of critical systems, identifying potential issues and proactively addressing them.
• Manage vendor and contractor relationships, ensuring service-level agreements (SLAs) are met.
• Communicate with clients and stakeholders, providing updates on system performance and addressing concerns.
• Monitor and manage risk, including the development and execution of safety protocols and emergency response plans.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging emerging technologies and industry best practices.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Prepare and manage budgets related to data center operations and maintenance.

If you are a proactive and results-driven professional with a strong technical background and leadership skills, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping the future of data center operations and make a meaningful impact in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.