VP Program Manager, Data Centers

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Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.
What this job involves:
As VP, Program Manager, you will serve as the day-to-day PMO lead for a large data center campus, overseeing mission-critical infrastructure projects that demand exceptional technical expertise and operational precision. You will manage integrated project teams delivering complex data center construction and operations programs while maintaining the rigorous standards required for 24/7 uptime environments. Your deep understanding of data center infrastructure, vendor ecosystems, and critical facility requirements will be essential to ensuring seamless program execution. Working closely with client stakeholders and senior leadership, you will drive operational excellence across all aspects of campus development and ongoing facility management.
What your day-to-day will look like:
Program Leadership & PMO Operations
Leading daily PMO operations for the data center campus, coordinating multiple concurrent projects across construction, infrastructure upgrades, and facility expansions
Establishing and maintaining PMO frameworks, standards, governance structures, and reporting cadences specific to data center program delivery
Serving as the central point of coordination between clients, contractors, design teams, MEP specialists, and critical systems vendors
Managing master program schedules, interdependencies, and resource allocation across the campus portfolio
Technical Program Execution
Overseeing mission-critical infrastructure projects including power distribution, cooling systems, backup generators, fire suppression, and network infrastructure
Ensuring adherence to data center industry standards (Uptime Institute Tier classifications, ASHRAE guidelines, etc.) and client-specific technical requirements
Coordinating commissioning activities, integrated systems testing, and operational readiness for data center facilities
Managing relationships with specialized data center contractors, equipment vendors, and critical infrastructure providers
Client & Stakeholder Management
Acting as the primary client interface for program delivery, building trusted relationships with facilities teams, IT leadership, and executive stakeholders
Conducting regular program reviews, presenting status updates, risk assessments, and performance metrics to client leadership
Translating complex technical requirements into actionable program plans and communicating progress across technical and non-technical audiences
Managing client expectations around capacity planning, phased delivery schedules, and operational transition planning
Financial & Risk Management
Overseeing program budgets ranging into hundreds of millions of dollars, tracking costs across multiple projects and ensuring financial accountability
Monitoring change management processes, reviewing and approving change orders while maintaining budget integrity
Identifying and mitigating program risks including supply chain disruptions, long-lead equipment delays, and operational continuity concerns
Ensuring compliance with safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and data center-specific operational standards
Team Development & Process Improvement
Leading and mentoring a team of project managers, coordinators, and technical specialists focused on data center delivery
Implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance PMO effectiveness, reporting accuracy, and program delivery efficiency
Developing data center-specific project management methodologies, templates, and lessons learned repositories
Supporting business development efforts through client relationship management, technical expertise, and proposal development
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in engineering (electrical, mechanical, or civil preferred), construction management, or related technical field
12+ years of program/project management experience with significant exposure to data center or mission-critical facility projects
Proven experience leading PMO operations for large-scale capital programs ($100M+ portfolios)
Deep understanding of data center infrastructure including power systems (UPS, generators, switchgear), cooling architectures (CRAC/CRAH units, chilled water systems), and supporting MEP systems
Demonstrated success managing complex stakeholder relationships in demanding, high-accountability environments
Experience with commissioning processes, integrated systems testing, and operational handover for critical facilities
Extensive experience supervising, developing, and mentoring technical project teams
Exceptional organizational skills with ability to manage multiple concurrent high-priority initiatives
Strong financial acumen including budget management, cost forecasting, and value engineering
Outstanding communication skills with ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree in engineering, construction management, or business administration
PMP, CCM, or other recognized project management certifications
LEED AP or data center-specific certifications (CDCP, CDCS, or similar)
Experience with hyperscale data center environments or colocation facilities
Familiarity with modular/prefabricated data center delivery methods
Proficiency in project management platforms (Smartsheet, Procore, P6, MS Project) and data analytics tools
Six Sigma or Lean certification with demonstrated process improvement track record
Experience working with mission-critical clients in technology, cloud services, or telecommunications sectors
Track record of successful business development and client portfolio growth
This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Expected compensation for this position:
138,840.00 – 201,480.00 USD per year
Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.
Location:
Remote –Atlanta, GA, Dallas, TX, Houston, TX, Kansas City, MO, Lufkin, TX, Shreveport, LA, Washington, DC
If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:
JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits include:
401(k) plan with matching company c