Associate Design Manager – Data Centre

About the role

The Associate Design Manager will lead end‑to‑end delivery of large, multidisciplinary data‑centre and mission‑critical facility projects in Dubai. You will own the full project lifecycle, from concept through detailed design, construction support and commissioning, while acting as the primary client interface.

Key responsibilities

• Lead client engagement, conduct design review meetings and manage expectations, scope changes and risk communication.
• Initiate and set up project tools, schedules, workstreams and WBS; coordinate all technical disciplines (HVAC, electrical, ELV/IBMS, architecture, structural, civil).
• Manage third‑party consultants, establish coordination processes and resolve cross‑discipline conflicts early.
• Develop and maintain the master schedule, track performance, identify delays and implement corrective actions.
• Review design deliverables for compliance with TIA‑942, Uptime Tier, ASHRAE, NFPA/NBC fire codes and UAE regulations; oversee BIM coordination.
• Support the Project Manager with budget reporting, resource utilization and monthly EVM/P&L inputs.

Required profile

• 8+ years of project or design management experience, at least 5 years on data‑centre or mission‑critical facilities.
• BE in Mechanical, Electrical or Building Services (or equivalent); PMP certification strongly preferred.
• Proven track record delivering large, multidisciplinary projects on schedule and budget.
• Experience managing multi‑disciplinary teams across geographies and familiarity with UAE authority approvals (DEWA, ADDC, Civil Defence).

Required skills

• HVAC and mechanical systems design.
• Electrical power systems, MV/LV, UPS, generators.
• ELV/IBMS, controls, security and monitoring systems.
• BIM coordination using Revit, Navisworks or equivalent.
• Data‑centre standards: TIA‑942, Uptime Institute Tier III/IV, ASHRAE 90.4.
• Fire codes (NFPA/NBC) and UAE regulatory landscape.