The General Manager Data Centre Programme will be responsible for the overall programme management of Bayobab Group’s data centre projects from inception to completion. Reporting directly to the CEO, this individual will lead the design, implementation, and optimization of data centres and ensure that all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. The role requires a highly strategic and results-driven leader capable of managing multidisciplinary teams, working with senior leadership, and influencing key stakeholders to ensure alignment with business objectives.
Key Performance Areas: Core, essential responsibilities / outputs of the position (KPA's)
Project Leadership & Management
Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of data centre projects, ensuring alignment with Bayobab’s overall business strategy and goals.
Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets for all data centre projects.
Ensure the adherence to project management best practices, quality standards, and safety regulations.
Identify and manage project risks, issues, and dependencies, providing timely resolution and updates to the CEO and other senior leaders.
Monitor project performance and generate detailed progress reports for the CEO and other key stakeholders.
Act as the main point of contact for all data centre project stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and understanding of expectations.
Lead the integration of green building practices, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainability standards (such as LEED or BREEAM certifications) in the design and operation of data centres.
Continuously explore and implement innovative solutions for data centre optimization, including advancements in cooling, security, automation, and energy management.
Ensure data centre initiatives are in line with corporate finance and capital allocation strategies.
Ensure all data centre projects comply with industry standards, regulations, and certifications such as Uptime Institute Tier Ratings, ISO certifications, data protection laws, and security compliance standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
Oversee the development of disaster recovery plans and ensure that data centre infrastructure is resilient and capable of maintaining operations during unforeseen disruptions.
Team Management
Lead, mentor, and develop project teams, ensuring effective collaboration and high performance.
Promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the project team.
Provide technical guidance and support to project managers and team members across multiple disciplines (engineering, IT, facilities, etc.).
Coordinate with internal and external vendors, consultants, and contractors to ensure that project requirements are met.
Design & Implementation
Oversee the design and construction phases of the data centre projects, ensuring that designs meet Bayobab Group’s operational, security, and energy efficiency standards.
Collaborate with IT, engineering, and operations teams to develop and implement infrastructure solutions.
Ensure data centre projects adhere to industry standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in terms of power, cooling, connectivity, and security.
Implement green initiatives and sustainable practices in the design and operation of data centres.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and efficiently.
Approve and manage procurement processes, ensuring all project materials, tools, and resources are obtained in a timely manner.
Monitor costs and adjust project scope, timeline, and resources as needed to stay within budgetary constraints.
Stakeholder Engagement
Liaise directly with the CEO and other executive leaders to provide updates, report progress, and escalate issues where necessary.
Present business cases, budgets, and progress reports to key stakeholders, including the CEO and other senior leadership teams.
Ensure stakeholder expectations are managed, and communication remains clear, transparent, and aligned with business objectives.
Role Deliverables
Develop and execute a multi-year roadmap for Data Centre implementation and expansion, ensuring alignment with business growth objectives.
Manage the CAPEX & OPEX Budget for data centre business deployment, optimizing OPEX and CAPEX efficiency while scaling revenue streams.
Lead strategic engagements with hyperscalers, cloud service providers, AI/ML firms, and enterprise customers.
Ensure timely execution of data centre deployment, expansion, upgrades, and service rollouts by driving a structured, milestone-based delivery framework.
Role Dependencies
Relationships with key areas and resources across Bayobab
Strategic direction and guidance from MTN Group
The morale, effectiveness, and co-operation of all associated staff
Job Requirements (Education, Experience and Competencies)
Education:
Minimum 4-years bachelor’s degree in engineering, Project Management, Computer Science, or a related field.
A master’s degree in project management, Business Administration, or a similar discipline is preferred.
A PMP (Project Management Professional) or equivalent certification is preferred. LEED or other green building certifications are highly desirable.
A certification in data centre management (e.g., CDCP – Certified Data Centre Professional) is also a plus.
Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of experience in managing complex infrastructure projects and programmes, with at least 5 years focused on data centres.
Experience managing complex data centre projects across diverse regions is an advantage, especially in markets where Bayobab operates or plans to expand.
Proven experience in leading large-scale projects in data centre design, construction, and operations.
Strong experience with project management methodologies, including Agile, Waterfall, and Hybrid models.
Familiarity with industry standards such as Uptime Institute Tier Ratings, ISO certifications, and LEED for sustainability.
Competencies:
Strong project management skills, including scope definition, risk management, scheduling, and resource allocation.
A solid understanding of cybersecurity risks and best practices related to data centre infrastructure, ensuring that the design and operations align with data security protocols.
Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with the ability to motivate cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact with all levels of the organization.
Expertise in managing project budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships.
In-depth knowledge of data centre infrastructure, including electrical, mechanical, and cooling systems.
Experience in sustainable design and green building certifications.
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Other:
Regional and international travel
Ability to adapt to changing requirements of business
General Manager - Data Centre Programme (12 Months' Contract Extendable)