Freelance Senior Project Manager - Milton Keynes Data Centre

LJB & Co. Construction Recruitment • Temporary / Short-term • Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire • 15m ago

Our client is a dynamic, fast growing data centre developer. They have grown rapidly, mainly through acquisitions, over the last few years and now operate 65 different sites across the UK & Europe. The organisation is still heavily in acquisition mode and are about to add a further 10-sites to their portfolio with advanced talks for others that may come to fruition over the next 12-18 months They are embarking on a series of upgrades, improvements, refurbishment and extensions to their UK portfolio and they are now seeking a Project Manager to deliver a project in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. This is an upgrade to a ‘live’ data centre, primarily involving MEP works: UPS, Generators, Chillers, Switchgear and creating more whitespace in void areas etc. We are therefore seeking a Project Manager from an MEP background (mechanical or electrical bias). Ideally with some experience of data centre upgrades with a live, occupied environment Key Responsibilities• Client-Side Leadership: Represent the client’s interests at all times, ensuring quality, compliance, and value for money.• Tender Management: Prepare and launch Stage 3 tender process with multiple contractors.• Project Delivery: Oversee M&E major works in a live data centre environment, ensuring SLA availability and Tier 3 compliance.• Stakeholder Engagement: Manage client relationships, internal teams, and external contractors to ensure alignment and successful delivery.• Scope & Drawings: Review and define project scope, demarcation, and responsibilities using MEP and civil/architectural drawings.• On-Site Leadership: Be present on-site full-time to manage works, temporary works plans, and compliance with CDM and UK construction regulations.• Program Efficiency: Identify gaps and opportunities to expedite programs and optimize work packages.• Digital Tools: Proficient in Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and SharePoint for document control, mark-ups, and collaboration with PMO teams.• Reporting: Produce weekly progress reports, track blockers, and provide clear next steps and recommendations.• Risk Management: Maintain a project risk register and trace all risks back to cost and time impacts.• Compliance & Safety: Ensure adherence to all safety standards and regulatory requirements.• Problem Solving: Be solution-oriented, adaptable, and proactive in overcoming challenges without compromising safety.Skills & Experience• Proven experience in data centre projects (live environments preferred).• Strong MEP background with ability to manage contractors and consultants.• Familiarity with BMS, fire, and security systems.• Excellent understanding of CDM regulations and UK construction standards.• Proficiency in ACC, SharePoint, and digital collaboration tools.• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.• Ability to work under pressure and deliver results within tight deadlines.Immediate start available, long term freelance role with negotiable daily rate