Project Lead, Engineering, Operations Manager

Project Lead - Milan

Our client is seeking an experienced  Project Lead  to act as an  Owner’s Representative  on a major 50 MW new-build data centre development in Milan. The successful candidate will oversee the full lifecycle of project delivery, managing design, construction, commercial, and stakeholder interfaces to ensure the project is executed to the highest standards of safety, quality, schedule, and cost control.
This role is highly client-facing and requires a proactive leader with strong technical knowledge, exceptional communication skills, and proven experience in complex mission-critical environments.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Delivery
Lead the day-to-day management of the data centre project on behalf of the client.
Oversee project planning, schedule management, and risk mitigation from concept to commissioning.
Drive progress across all phases to ensure key milestones, quality standards, and contract obligations are met.
Challenge and support the general contractor and key subcontractors to deliver optimal outcomes.

Design & Technical Coordination
Work closely with design teams to ensure that technical requirements, specifications, and employer’s requirements are met.
Review and approve design submissions, technical proposals, and value engineering initiatives.
Ensure alignment between civil, structural, architectural, MEP, and commissioning streams.

Commercial & Contract Management
Monitor project budgets, cost reports, and change management processes.
Support the commercial team with contract administration, claims review, and procurement oversight.
Ensure transparent reporting to the client on financial health and risk exposure.

Stakeholder & Client Management
Act as the primary point of contact for all project-related matters in Berlin.
Lead meetings with contractors, consultants, utility providers, and authorities.
Provide clear, consistent reporting to internal leadership and investors.
Ensure project decisions align with the client’s business goals and strategic objectives.

Quality, Safety & Compliance
Ensure all works comply with Italian building regulations, health & safety legislation, and project specifications.
Support the implementation of QA/QC processes and oversee commissioning plans and testing protocols.
Promote a strong safety culture across the project team and supply chain.