VP of Data Center Development

As demand for AI and high-performance computing (HPC) accelerates, our client is building the infrastructure for this moment. They are laying the foundation for scalable, energy-optimized computing, designed to support next generation workloads and long-term growth.

With data centers across North and South America, they manage every stage of development from securing energy, producing power, and designing facilities to running world‑class operations. This vertically integrated approach allows us to innovate faster, operate more efficiently, and deliver infrastructure that can scale with the future of computing power.

The Vice President of Data Center Development is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of high‑performance computing (HPC) data center campus development within the USA and Canada. Reporting directly to the Senior Vice President of Development, this role manages the end‑to‑end development process from site acquisition through commissioning, overseeing complex multi‑stakeholder relationships and ensuring successful delivery of data center facilities up to gigawatt campuses.

This position requires a seasoned executive with demonstrated expertise in large‑scale infrastructure development, exceptional stakeholder management capabilities, and the ability to navigate complex permitting and regulatory environments while maintaining rigorous project governance standards.

• Direct oversight of all data center development initiatives within the assigned region, ensuring alignment with corporate strategy and financial objectives
• Establish and maintain development pipeline visibility with quarterly milestone tracking and forecasting
• Define project scope, timeline, and budget parameters
• Lead cross‑functional strategy sessions with internal teams and external stakeholders to optimize development approach and risk mitigation

• Serve as executive champion for all permitting and regulatory approval processes at federal, state, and municipal levels
• Establish relationships with key regulatory agencies, municipal leaders, and government affairs partners
• Ensure comprehensive compliance with environmental, zoning, utility interconnection, and operational requirements
• Oversee preparation and submission of all required applications, environmental assessments, and compliance documentation
• Drive resolution of regulatory obstacles and manage stakeholder engagement to secure necessary approvals within project timelines

• Provide owner's representation across all development phases including design, permitting, and construction
• Establish clear governance protocols with Architects & Engineers (A&E) firms, General Contractors (GC), and commissioning agents
• Review and approve major design decisions, specifications, and construction methodologies ensuring alignment with corporate standards
• Conduct regular site inspections, milestone reviews, and quality assessments
• Participate in executive steering committees and critical decision‑making forums

Establish procurement strategy and oversee vendor selection process for major components and services including:

• Power distribution and electrical infrastructure
• Cooling systems and HVAC infrastructure
• Structural and site development work
• Commissioning services and testing protocols
• Negotiate key commercial terms and ensure competitive bidding processes
• Maintain compliance with corporate procurement policies and approval authorities
• Build and maintain strategic vendor relationships

• Supervise Project Managers responsible for day‑to‑day execution, reporting, and stakeholder coordination
• Establish project governance frameworks, reporting cadence, and escalation protocols
• Monitor project performance against key metrics including schedule adherence, budget compliance, quality standards, and regulatory milestones
• Identify and resolve cross‑functional issues impacting project success
• Ensure comprehensive documentation and knowledge capture for continuous improvement

• Build and maintain…