Technical Director Mechanical Engineer - Data Centres (Building Services)

A little more about your role… 

The role of a Mechanical Technical Director in the Data Centres (DC) sector is a pivotal and highly rewarding position that combines leadership, innovation, and technical expertise. As a Technical Director, you will be at the forefront of designing and implementing cutting-edge solutions that ensure the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of data centre operations. This role offers the unique opportunity to lead a team of skilled engineers, drive strategic initiatives, and collaborate with industry leaders to shape the future of data centre technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in optimising energy consumption, enhancing security protocols, and ensuring seamless integration of emerging technologies. Additionally, the role offers the chance to build a robust professional network, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations. If you are passionate about making a significant impact in a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry, the role of Mechanical Technical Director in the DC sector is the perfect platform to showcase your talents and drive transformative change. 

• Be an integral part of the team’s day-to-day management, vision, values and leadership. Develop team spirit and co-operation. 

• Develop our client relationships and brand within the UK and EMEA. 

• Consistently meet monthly and annual budgets at a team level, support with MEP budget planning and continuously look for ways to improve performance. 

• Work with the director and senior leadership to develop and implement strategic initiatives in the team and across the wider business. 

• Become part of the wider WSP business by sharing knowledge and technical skills with colleagues from around the globe. 

• Drive profitable and sustainable work-winning and maintain up-to-date forecasting for the team and input to the wider MEP service delivery. 

• Oversee team performance including work pipeline, finance, and operational management. 

• Work with clients, developers, contractors and architects to build relationships and secure WSP’s position as the engineer of choice in the industry. 

• Being the client’s key point of contact. 

• Be a part of the team’s day-to-day management, vision, values and leadership and develop team spirit and co-operation. 

• Understand the need to provide excellent client care & the opportunities to develop additional business for the team. 

• Develop client relationship to promote new commissions. 

Your Team 

• You will work closely with likeminded individuals on exciting and challenging projects.

• The Building Services team in the Northern Region (Split across Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh and Glasgow) consists of more than 50 mechanical, electrical, and public health engineers.

• We make extraordinary efforts to attract, develop, engage and retain the best professionals in our fields of expertise because this is what makes us great.

• We put the highest ethical standards at the centre of all we do and is inherent in our offering.

• We are humble and act with moral and intellectual integrity, keep our word, treat everyone with respect, support our colleagues, and embrace diversity.

• We care about individuals and their progress and offer the most fulfilling career development for our professionals.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate… 

A Mechanical Technical Director in the Data Centres (DC) sector must exhibit a unique blend of technical prowess, leadership, and strategic insight. Key attributes include: 

• Either has Chartership through CIBSE/IET/IMechE Engineering Council or open to working towards this. 

• Mechanical Engineering Expertise: A profound understanding of mechanical systems, including HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), cooling systems, fuel systems, controls, and energy management, is crucial. This design expertise ensures the efficient and reliable operation of data centre infrastructure. 

• Innovative Problem-Solving: The ability to develop and implement innovative solutions to complex mechanical challenges is essential. This includes optimising cooling systems to enhance energy efficiency and reduce operational costs. 

• Leadership and Team Management: Leadership skills are necessary to guide and inspire a team of mechanical engineers and technicians. A Mechanical Technical Director should foster a collaborative environment, mentor team members, and effectively manage resources. 

• Strategic Vision: The role requires a forward-thinking approach to anticipate industry trends and challenges. Strategic planning and the ability to align mechanical engineering initiatives with business goals are vital for long-term success. 

• Project Management: Proficiency in project management is essential to oversee the planning, execution, and completion of mechanical engineering projects. This includes managing timelines, budgets, and ensuring quality standards are met. 

• Communication Skills: Have an ability to sketch and communicate technical detail graphically and effectively; to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and present ideas to senior management. 

• Adaptability: The DC sector is rapidly evolving, and a Mechanical Technical Director must be adaptable to new technologies, industry standards, and changing business needs. 

• Customer Focus: Understanding and addressing the needs of clients and end-users is critical. A Mechanical Technical Director should prioritise customer satisfaction and ensure that mechanical systems meet or exceed expectations. 

These attributes collectively enable a Mechanical Technical Director to drive the success and innovation of data centre operations, ensuring they remain efficient, secure, and scalable.