Project Director

Project Director Job Description

Position: Project Director - Data Center Development

Location: Japan, Tokyo

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Project Director to lead the end-to-end delivery of hyperscale data center developments in Japan. This senior leadership role requires a strategic professional with deep technical expertise in mission-critical infrastructure and proven success managing complex, high-value projects across diverse markets. The successful candidate will oversee multidisciplinary teams and ensure projects meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Management

Lead full lifecycle delivery of hyperscale and greenfield data center projects from site selection through commissioning and operational handover

Develop and execute comprehensive project strategies aligned with business objectives and client requirements

Establish project scope, objectives, milestones, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders

Oversee project budgets, schedules, and resource allocation while maintaining strict cost controls

Implement robust risk management frameworks and contingency planning protocols

Team & Stakeholder Management

Direct multidisciplinary teams including engineers, consultants, contractors, and vendors

Coordinate with internal departments including engineering, construction, operations, and finance

Manage vendor relationships and subcontractor performance to ensure seamless project execution

Serve as primary liaison with government agencies, utility providers, and regulatory bodies

Foster collaborative relationships with Japanese business partners and local stakeholders

Technical & Operational Excellence

Ensure compliance with local regulations, permitting requirements, and environmental standards

Champion safety, quality, and sustainability standards across all development phases

Drive implementation of advanced cooling technologies and renewable energy integration

Oversee commissioning processes and integrated systems testing for mission-critical infrastructure

Maintain adherence to industry certifications including Tier III standards and ISO50001 Energy Management

Strategic & Commercial Activities

Support procurement strategies, contract negotiations, and vendor performance management

Lead weekly coordination meetings ensuring clear communication across all stakeholders

Provide strategic input on design optimization and value engineering opportunities

Prepare comprehensive project reports and presentations for senior management and investors

Contribute to business development initiatives and market expansion strategies

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related technical field

12+ years experience in large-scale infrastructure or data center projects

Minimum 5 years in senior project leadership roles managing teams of 20+ professionals

Proven track record delivering hyperscale facilities with IT capacity exceeding 20MW

Technical Expertise

Deep understanding of data center MEP systems, power distribution, and cooling infrastructure

Knowledge of mission-critical facility requirements and Tier certification standards

Experience with carrier-neutral data centers and hyperscale client requirements

Familiarity with renewable energy integration and ESG compliance frameworks

Proficiency in project management software including MS Project and Primavera

Regional & Cultural Competencies

Strong understanding of Japanese business culture and regulatory environment

Experience working with Japanese contractors, consultants, and government agencies

Ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships in multicultural environments

Willingness to travel extensively within Japan and across the Asia-Pacific region

Language & Communication

Excellent English communication skills for international stakeholder management

Japanese language capabilities preferred but not essential with strong local support

Demonstrated ability to present complex technical concepts to diverse audiences

Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills

Preferred Qualifications

PMP or equivalent project management certification

Experience with AI-ready infrastructure and advanced cooling systems

Background in renewable energy or sustainable infrastructure development

Previous work experience in Japan or broader Asia-Pacific markets

Master's degree in Engineering or Business Administration

What We Offer

Leadership role in one of Asia's most ambitious data center expansion programs

Opportunity to shape next-generation digital infrastructure across strategic markets

Competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives

Comprehensive benefits including international health coverage and relocation support

Professional development opportunities within a globally recognized investment platform

Direct exposure to cutting-edge technologies and sustainable infrastructure solutions

This role offers the opportunity to drive transformational projects within a leading investment platform while contributing to the digital infrastructure backbone supporting AI, cloud computing, and next-generation technologies across Asia.