Project Director

JDL Recruitment are excited to be partnering with a leading Data Centre Developer who are hiring a Project Director to join the team in Paris, France.This opportunity is on a local French contract and requires the applicant to be based in Paris.Role SummaryThe Project Director will lead the strategic delivery of multiple data centre develop, construct and expansion projects in Paris. This senior role is responsible for overseeing project execution, ensuring alignment with objectives, and driving consistency in design and delivery across all Paris-based sites. The Project Director will manage a team of Project Managers and act as the key interface between internal stakeholders, external partners, and customers.ResponsibilitiesLead the planning, execution, and governance of multiple concurrent data centre projects in Paris.Develop and implement delivery strategies that align with global standards and local business needs.Drive innovation and implementation of forward thinking construction practices with a solid appreciation for OFCI procurement and modular build practices.Ability to lead all pre-construction activities following site selection, land purchase, permitting, regulatory approvals, early design coordination, and enabling works to ensure readiness for full construction start.Ensure consistent application of project controls, reporting, and risk management across all Paris projects.Manage and mentor a team of Project Managers and support staff based in Paris.Matrix lead and manage a diverse internal and external team of designers, cost managers, procurement managers, customer contacts as required to achieve the business goals. Act as the senior point of contact both for internal and external stakeholders (Design, Procurement, Operations, Real Estate, PMO) and external partners (consultants, contractors, suppliers).Represent the company in customer meetings and ensure project delivery meets client expectations.Own project budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting across the portfolio.Oversee contract negotiations, major variations, and claims resolution.Ensure commercial risks are identified, mitigated, and escalated appropriately.Champion health and safety best practices across all Paris sites.Ensure compliance with French building codes, environmental regulations, and company standards.Drive continuous improvement in quality assurance and delivery processes.Ensure projects are delivered to meet operational requirements and customer expectations.Lead formal handover processes to the Operations/Customer team, ensuring all commissioning and documentation is complete.RequirementsProven experience in leading large-scale construction programmes in the French market, ideally within the data centre or high-tech infrastructure sector.Strong understanding of French health and safety regulations and building codes.Deep technical knowledge of construction, M&E systems, and civil/structural engineering.Experience managing Design & Build contracts and complex commercial negotiations.Demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.Fluent in French and English (written and verbal); additional European languages are a plus.Excellent strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills.Degree in Construction, Engineering, or a related discipline.Professional certification (e.g. Chartered Engineer, PMP, MRICS or equivalent).