IT Data Center Manager

Job Location: hybrid work 

About:

Our client seeks an experienced Data Center Manager to oversee the operation, maintenance, and security of its data center in Basel, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of IT and operational technology infrastructures. This role requires a strategic leader who will collaborate closely with IT leadership and external service providers, implement best practices, and drive continuous improvements across global data center standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive technical expertise in data center management and a solid track record in project leadership, all while fostering a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration in a dynamic, multi-national environment. A hybrid (onsite+remote) working arrangement is possible.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee operation, maintenance, and security of the data center, ensuring optimal performance and uptime.
• Manage data center's physical infrastructure and coordinate with IT leadership to align strategies with business goals.
• Act as Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for technical infrastructure issues with external providers and local mechanical service teams.
• Assign and govern work to the Data Center Operations staff, fostering team collaboration and efficiency.
• Define and implement data center strategy, including cabling standards and disaster recovery plans.
• Manage IT infrastructure asset lifecycle, conduct capacity planning, and oversee expansions or migrations.
• Drive continuous improvements, standardization, and automation within data center operations.
• Ensure compliance with security policies and industry regulations while monitoring performance and troubleshooting issues.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements, recommending enhancements to improve data center operations.

Required Skills:

• Strong knowledge of data center infrastructure, including servers, storage, networking, power, and cooling systems
• Advanced technical experience with VMware vSphere, Windows Server, Linux Server, Storage, and Backup
• Knowledge of networking fundamentals
• Experience leading data center projects, including expansions, migrations, and upgrades, with strong project management skills
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to data center operations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP) and Certified Data Center Management Professional (CDCMP) are a plus
• Knowledge of security hardening and best practices
• Proven experience with simplification and standardization of infrastructure
• Ability to drive cultural and technological disruption
• Ability to anticipate risks and devise solutions in the moment
• Experience in the pharmaceutical or other regulated industries
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• English fluency required; German language skills preferred
• Experience in large, multi-national organizations
• 5-10 years of relevant experience