Head of IT Infrastructure - Data Center Services

Responsibilities / Tasks

The Head of IT Datacenter Services is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic direction, performance, and continuous evolution of GEA’s global Datacenter infrastructure, Cloud computing, Storage, Database, Backup and Archiving. 
This role leads the Global IT Datacenter services team, ensuring secure, scalable, and high-performing Datacenter services that support the company’s digital and operational goals. 
The position combines strategic planning, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement to deliver resilient and future-ready Datacenter capabilities.

In addition to the primary location, the position can be based at the following locations: Düsseldorf.

Accountable to Business & IT Management for the performance of the Datacenter services 

• Strategic Direction & Service Management 
• Develop and maintain the IT Datacenter services strategic road map, ensuring that Datacenter services capabilities continually support the overall business goals and objectives.
• Implement governance structures for services dependent on Datacenter infrastructure 
• Drive initiatives towards service excellence (content, quality & cost), standardization and innovation.
• Oversee project delivery across scope, budget, and timelines.
• Ensure high availability, security, and performance of Datacenter services.
• Vendor Management 
• Manage vendor relationships, procurement, and service escalations.
• Engage regularly with vendors and service providers. Manages challenging customer escalations and non-conformities.

Budget Management
Responsible for the overall Budget for the Datacenter services, including controlling (planning, calculation and charging) and monitor the services end to end incl. management, define service supply mix including selection and procurement processes for new vendors and services.

People & Organizational Leadership
Lead the global Datacenter services team. For team members in the same location or for IT staff outside of IT hub locations, provide disciplinary leadership, including performance management and development planning. For team members at an IT hub location, provide functional leadership and input for performance management and development planning to the respective Divisional IT Lead.

Your Profile / Qualifications

• ​​Bachelor or Master’s Degree in information technology/ Computer Science / Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical discipline  
• ​​Proven experience (typically 7+ years) in in IT Service Delivery / IT Operations / IT Architecture, with at least 5 years in a leadership role 
• ​Experience in handling and leading interdisciplinary teams  
• ​Experience in defining IT strategy and influencing decisions  
• ​Profound knowledge and experience in IT Service Management and ITIL process framework 
• ​Experience in multivendor Management and dealing with multiple suppliers 
• ​Extensive international exposure and deep understanding of cultural diversity 
• ​Motivated by the desire to make a difference in the business 
• ​Able to develop and build leadership within his management team ​ 
• ​​Strong interpersonal skills in communication, collaboration & Negotiation skills at different levels (customers, Suppliers,) 
• ​Exceptional collaboration and partnering skills.  
• ​Leadership skills (in a global matrix environment) and ability to supervise and inspire teams, promoting their professional growth. 
• ​Demonstrated ability to execute financial analysis, estimating and managing budget 
• ​Strong communication skills, in English, local language is a plus 
• ​Strong analytical ability, business acumen, problem solving skills 
• ​Able to lead, develop, engage, and influence people at all levels.​ 
• Did we spark your interest?Then please click apply above to access our guided application process.