[Remote] Director, Operations SME – Data Centers & Critical Env

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Director, Data Center Account Operations SME. This role serves as the senior technical and operational authority for complex data center accounts, focusing on operational execution, solution development, and compliance management.ResponsibilitiesSupport the development of the solution for operating the clients data center portfoliosPartner with technical transition leadership to ensure comprehensive due diligence and site start-up is executed to planAct as the primary account focused SME for critical facility operations, including electrical distribution, UPS systems, generators, cooling systems (CRAC/CRAH), and BMS/EPMS platformsDeep understanding of high density data center layouts and advanced liquid cooling technologies- operations and maintenanceProvide expert guidance on incident response, root cause analysis (RCA), and risk mitigationReview and approve MOPs, SOPs, and EOPs, ensuring technical accuracy and alignment with industry best practicesLead technical assessments, audits, and operational readiness reviews across data center sitesSupport complex troubleshooting and high-severity incidents (SEVs) as escalation authorityImplement and advise on training protocols for site teamsDrive deployment of operational platforms for managing maintenance and operations of critical data center locationsOngoing partnership with Account Directors and clients to align operations with business goals, SLAs, and reliability objectivesEnsure proper hand-over to ongoing account management team is comprehensive and well planned for operational continuityDrive standardization and scalability of operating models across multi-site or global accountsIdentify operational gaps and lead corrective action plans and performance improvement initiativesServe as a strategic advisor during contract solutioning, transitions, mobilizations, and expansionsChampion best practices in uptime, redundancy, and resilience for all data center environmentsDrive adoption of reliability-centered maintenance (RCM), predictive maintenance, and condition-based monitoringAnalyze performance data to identify trends and proactively mitigate risksLead initiatives to improve energy efficiency, sustainability, and cost optimizationEnsure adherence to regulatory and industry standards (OSHA, NFPA, ISO, Uptime Institute guidelines, etc)Support audit preparation, compliance reviews, and risk management frameworksDevelop and implement standardized operational controls and governance modelsEvaluate and mitigate risks associated with critical infrastructure changes or failuresAct as a trusted technical advisor to client and account stakeholders, including client and account data center engineering and operations leadershipParticipate in executive governance meetings (QBRs, technical reviews)Communicate complex technical issues and solutions in a clear, business-focused mannerProvide thought leadership and innovation recommendations to enhance client outcomesMentor and develop operations leaders, engineers, and technical teamsDefine competency frameworks and training programs for critical operations rolesPromote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvementSupport talent strategy and succession planning for technical rolesSkillsBachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or related field) or equivalent experience12+ years of experience in data center operations, critical facilities, or mission-critical environments8+ years in senior leadership, technical advisory, or SME rolesDeep knowledge of: Electrical systems (medium/low voltage, switchgear, UPS, generators, etc), Mechanical systems (HVAC, chilled water, cooling technologies, fire, etc), High density liquid cooling systems and configurations, Critical environment operations and redundancies, Account operations and site/portfolio start-upsProven experience supporting large-scale enterprise, hyperscale, or colocation environmentsStrong experience with incident management, RCA methodologies, and risk mitigationIndustry certifications (e.g., Uptime Institute ATS/Accredited Tier Specialist, CFM, PMP, LEED, CRL)Experience with global or multi-region accountsKnowledge of digital tools, DCIM, CMMS, and data analytics platformsBenefitsHealth, vision, and dental insuranceFlexible spending accountsHealth savings accountsRetirement savings plansLife, and disability insurance programsPaid and unpaid time away from workCompany OverviewCushman & Wakefield is a real estate services firm that offers retail investment, energy management, and property services. It was founded in 1917, and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is https://www.cushmanwakefield.com.Company H1B SponsorshipCushman & Wakefield has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 2 in 2026, 3 in 2025, 6 in 2024, 2 in 2023, 6 in 2022, 1 in 2021, 2 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.