Land Development Metro Lead

Job Description

Overview

The MS datacentre development portfolio consists of complex, multi-disciplinary, large scale, multi-year datacentre construction and lease projects. The Microsoft Datacentre Land Development team supports the development and delivery of Microsoft’s datacentre portfolio from site selection through design, construction and handover to operations.

Microsoft is looking for a Land Development Metro Lead, based in the UK, to have a key role in coordinating across internal teams (e.g. Environment, Engineering and Design, Construction, Government Affairs, Community Engagement etc.) to ensure delivery of operation-ready data centre sites. They will support the development and execution of permitting strategies for the lifecycle delivery of datacentre development and will be a key contributor in the execution of comprehensive permitting programs and to the Microsoft pre-construction program

In alignment with our Microsoft values, we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment for all employees to positively impact our culture every day.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Manage the development, permitting and approvals process for projects to enable new data centre development and construction throughout the EMEA Region;
• Lead the permitting process and discussions with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs);
• Conduct comprehensive assessments throughout due diligence, design and construction and coordinate with key counterparts to develop permitting and project delivery strategies in order to minimise risk;
• Negotiate development agreements with real estate developers and support site seller negotiations;
• Own the land development budget for the projects and lead progress through decision stage gates and into construction;
• Lead stakeholder engagement and represent Microsoft in key meetings with applicable AHJs, regulatory agencies, politicians and other external stakeholders to facilitate data centre development;
• Scope and negotiate local infrastructure improvements with AHJs;
• Work with partner teams to deliver utility easements and water connections;
• Prepare and present reports on project progress and potential risks to internal and external audiences;
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to identify innovative solutions to meet permitting requirements and facilitate timely approvals to resolve potential delays to construction or other activities; and
• Work with construction and operation teams to hand over permits and facilitate future compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Construction, Real Estate, Urban Planning or equivalent area;
• Substantial experience in real estate or infrastructure project development;
• Experience delivering zoning, permits, planning and other development approvals for large scale and/or complex construction projects;
• Experience managing a portfolio of projects and associated deliverables, budgets and schedules;
• Ability to establish and maintain cross-functional and positive working relationships with internal and external teams including environmental consultants, attorneys, contractors, and regulatory agencies;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail and high standards for quality of deliverables.

  While not required, we also look for the following Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in relevant local languages
  • Community Engagement and Stakeholder engagement experience
  • Mission critical design and/or construction experience
  • Experience in delivering projects in multiple jurisdictions

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.