Technical Services Manager – Data Centre Project (3‑Year Programme)

Location: London Docklands

Project Value: £230 million

Salary: Competitive

A first‑generation construction contractor operating across Ireland, the UK and Northern Europe is seeking an experienced, mechanically biased Technical Services Manager to join a high‑performing project team delivering a major data centre development in the London Docklands. The organisation specialises in Critical Environments including Data Centres, Life Sciences, Aviation, High‑Value Manufacturing and Critical Logistics.

Reporting To

Data Centre MEP Lead

Purpose of the Role

To manage the successful delivery of mechanical and electrical systems across all project phases — ensuring specification compliance, quality execution, and seamless testing, commissioning and handover.

Role Responsibilities

• Identify and shortlist potential M&E partners during tender stages and support selection at pre‑award meetings
• Assess and track performance of key M&E subcontractors across quality, safety, programme and value
• Act as escalation point for MEP issues and drive resolution
• Establish and promote a strong safety culture across all technical services activities
• Ensure Safety and Environmental Management Systems are implemented from a Technical Services perspective
• Build and resource the M&E team; allocate appropriate personnel and clarify role requirements
• Foster a positive, inclusive team culture and encourage high performance
• Communicate constructively with the M&E team; recognise and reward strong contributions
• Develop team capability through coaching, mentoring and structured support
• Manage project team performance and ensure accountability to agreed goals
• Review tender documentation to ensure cost‑efficient M&E packages
• Perform due diligence on subcontractor packages and flag commercial risks
• Manage escalated variations in collaboration with the QS team
• Build and maintain strong relationships with M&E consultants and utility providers
• Identify opportunities to expand the client base and support relationship‑building activities
• Maintain high standards of professionalism in all communications and presentations
• Oversee project compliance with QMS, BCAR and relevant M&E industry standards
• Conduct regular site inspections to ensure compliance and quality
• Attend selected project/M&E meetings requiring senior technical presence
• Monitor progress of M&E installations and manage escalated issues
• Oversee commissioning, demonstration and handover processes
• Perform M&E Coordinator duties where required

Candidate Requirements

• Data Centre experience is essential
• Mechanical bias with strong technical understanding
• Resides in London or within easy reach of the Docklands
• Third‑level qualification in Building Services, Mechanical Engineering, a related discipline, or qualified mechanical trade
• 10+ years’ construction experience, including minimum 5 years as a Technical Services Manager or similar
• Proven track record delivering projects through to completion
• Strong understanding of design requirements and client briefs
• Ability to build positive working relationships and foster team cohesion
• Autonomous, results‑driven and accountable
• Strong communication and stakeholder‑management skills

Remuneration

A competitive package may include base salary, pension and life assurance, healthcare, and travel allowance/company vehicle.

If you are interested in the role of Technical Services Manager and feel that you have the relevant experience, please contact your Recruitment Partner, Stuart Logan at Unicorn Resourcing.

If this job isn't exactly right for you but you're looking for something new, please contact us for a confidential career discussion.

Unicorn Resourcing Limited is acting as an Employment Agency in regard to this Permanent opportunity.