Director, Design & Technical Development

AI / HPC Infrastructure – Phase 1 Platform Build
Location: Dubai | Relocation supported
We’re working with a well-capitalised platform at the very start of a significant AI infrastructure build-out.
This isn’t a “maintain what exists” role.
It’s a design it properly from day one role.
They are moving into Phase 1 of a multi-site AI / HPC data centre programme and are looking for a Design & Technical Lead to set the blueprint across geographies.

The Mandate

You will own early-stage technical development across multiple AI-focused facilities.
From feasibility through to concept design.
From modular strategy to standardisation.
From cost per MW to PUE optimisation.
The objective?
Create a repeatable, scalable, AI-ready design platform that works across regions – optimised for:

• High-density compute
• Liquid cooling environments
• Speed to market
• Long-term operational efficiency
• Sustainability and heat reuse integration

You’ll report into the COO, with direct exposure to senior leadership.
This is a foundational hire.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading feasibility and concept design for high-density AI data centres
• Developing modular, standardised templates (power, cooling, redundancy, expansion strategy)
• Managing external consultants and EPC partners through design and technical due diligence
• Embedding sustainability and heat-reuse principles into baseline designs
• Supporting customer conversations – articulating load profiles and technical capability
• Tracking key design KPIs (cost per MW, scalability, PUE, time-to-delivery)

This is as much about technical leadership as it is about commercial awareness.

The Profile

We’re looking for someone who has lived and breathed mission-critical design.
Likely background:

• 10+ years within data centre or mission-critical environments
• Experience in recognised engineering / design consultancies or developer/operator platforms
• Deep understanding of AI / HPC environments (liquid cooling, high-density racks, modular build strategy)
• Experience managing multi-discipline consultant teams and EPC interfaces
• Strong grip on constructability, cost planning and design governance
• Comfortable operating cross-functionally with commercial, energy and delivery teams

Location

Ideally based in – or open to relocating to – the Middle East.

Why This Role?

• Greenfield AI infrastructure programme
• Board-level visibility
• Ability to define technical standards across multiple regions
• Genuine influence on speed, cost and scalability

If you’re currently leading design on AI-ready facilities and want the opportunity to shape a platform rather than just deliver a project – this is worth a conversation.
Happy to discuss in confidence.