Daksta

Director, Data Center Development & Construction

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director, Data Center Development & Construction to lead the development and construction of cutting-edge data center projects. This role is pivotal in managing the entire lifecycle of data center projects, from entitlement and design to construction and delivery. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of construction, design-build delivery, environmental impact assessment, and zoning analysis, along with a proven track record of managing complex, mission-critical projects. This position is based at the project site in Richmond, VA, with a minimum of 25% travel to headquarters and potential additional project sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and management of data center projects from inception to completion.
• Oversee consultant activities during entitlement and design development, including commissioning reports (utility, wetlands, environmental, geotechnical) and analyzing results.
• Prepare and manage project business plans, including marketing strategies, budgets, capital requirements, and exit strategies.
• Develop and execute project sustainability plans, ensuring alignment with industry standards and metrics such as PUE and WUE.
• Manage entitlement requirements and maintain relationships with public agencies to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Prepare and oversee development budgets and schedules, ensuring projects remain on time and within budget.
• Directly interface with general contractors throughout all project phases, including bidding, award, execution, and closeout.
• Develop and implement RFP requirements, evaluate bids, negotiate contracts, and manage agreements.
• Oversee construction project scopes, financial analysis, quality control measures, and reporting of key metrics.
• Serve as a leader within internal and external teams, fostering collaboration and driving project success.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture/planning, business, or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience).
• Experience in construction or development project management, particularly in mission-critical or technically complex commercial projects such as data centers.
• Advanced knowledge of data center development, design, and construction principles.
• Proficiency in financial modeling to assess project feasibility.
• Strong understanding of federal, state, and local ordinances and regulations related to asset development.
• Experience drafting and managing legal documents related to design and construction.
• Expertise in project scheduling, risk management, and mitigation strategies.
• Familiarity with sustainability metrics and the ability to develop and execute sustainability plans.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in software such as Microsoft Office Suite, Yardi, Primavera P6, and Aconex.

Preferred qualifications

• Advanced degrees in business, real estate, or related fields.
• Certifications such as PMP or CCM.
• Experience with hyperscale turn‑key data center projects.
• Knowledge of data center entitlement and permitting processes.
• Familiarity with cloud-based project management software (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud).

Day-to-Day

• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including consultants, contractors, and public agencies, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and schedules, addressing any critical path conflicts.
• Conduct zoning analysis and environmental impact assessments to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Lead the preparation and review of construction documents, including RFIs, submittals, and change orders.
• Provide regular updates to senior management and stakeholders on project status and performance metrics.
• Drive innovation and sustainability initiatives within data center development projects.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your eligible family members.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Life and supplemental life insurance, as well as short‑ and long‑term disability insurance.
• Paid Time Off and Parental Leave.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program and Employee Discount Program.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or any other category protected by applicable laws.