Construction Director, Europe

About The Role

As Construction Director, Europe, you will take full ownership of delivering major capital projects across Global Switch’s data centres. This leadership role is accountable for driving projects to meet time, cost, and quality objectives while embedding best practices in engineering and construction. You will manage and inspire project teams, oversee contractor and stakeholder relationships, and champion collaboration and continuous improvement. In addition, you will play a key role in advancing Global Switch’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainability throughout every stage of delivery.

As Construction Director, Europe, you will take full ownership of delivering major capital projects across Global Switch’s data centres. This leadership role is accountable for driving projects to meet time, cost, and quality objectives while embedding best practices in engineering and construction. You will manage and inspire project teams, oversee contractor and stakeholder relationships, and champion collaboration and continuous improvement. In addition, you will play a key role in advancing Global Switch’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainability throughout every stage of delivery.

• Drive the successful delivery of Group Projects across sites, embedding new initiatives and ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
• Support local sites and Project Managers in implementing projects in line with Global Switch processes and industry best practice.
• Establish and manage governance and sign-off forums to maintain focus on project gateways and ensure smooth delivery.
• Lead contract negotiations for design and construction programmes, providing expert guidance on cost and scheduling.
• Prepare clear, concise reports in agreed formats for the Executive Committee and Group Director Projects, including financial and cash-flow updates.
• Ensure compliance with all local permitting requirements and regulatory obligations through direct oversight or coordination with local Project Manager teams.
• Build strong internal and external stakeholder relationships to support project success.
• Define objectives and deliverables for Group Project Managers, providing leadership through ambiguity and change.

You’re a seasoned construction leader with a proven track record of delivering complex capital projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. You thrive in high-pressure environments, balancing strategic oversight with hands-on leadership. With deep expertise in engineering, contract negotiation, and stakeholder management, you inspire teams, drive collaboration, and embed best practices across every phase of delivery. You’re passionate about operational excellence and sustainability, and confident navigating ambiguity to achieve clear, measurable outcomes.

• Strong understanding of industry standards, engineering codes, and best practices for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Ability to interpret and communicate technical concepts clearly across diverse engineering disciplines.
• Skilled in applying recognised project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, PMI) and tools to optimise delivery.
• Comprehensive knowledge of general construction practices, mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems, and integration processes.
• Deep familiarity with local authority approval procedures, permitting requirements, and compliance frameworks.
• In-depth understanding of Health & Safety legislation, including CDM Regulations, and ability to embed compliance into project workflows.
• Demonstrated success in leading multi-disciplinary teams at senior project management level across multiple geographies.
• Expertise in delivering high-value capital projects on time and within budget, with a strong focus on M&E-heavy environments.

You might not know it, but you use a data centre like Global Switch every day. Whether you're browsing the web, streaming, playing a game, or simply making a purchase, you are relying on data centres around the world. Global Switch is a trusted name in the industry, with over 20 years of experience and a…