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Data Center Strategy Expert
📍 Brussels Area (Hybrid) | ⏳ 6 months (+ extension) | 🕒 Full-time | 🚀 Start: ASAP
Client & Context
Our client is a leading European energy infrastructure organization, operating critical transmission networks and playing a central role in the energy transition and decarbonization of the power system.
To support a large-scale digital and infrastructure transformation program, we are sourcing a Datacenter Strategy Expert to define and deliver a future-proof data center and hybrid cloud strategy for mission-critical operations.
You will collaborate with senior stakeholders, architects, and operational teams to design a highly resilient, secure, and scalable IT infrastructure roadmap.
Assignment Overview
The energy sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digitalization, real-time operations, AI, and cybersecurity requirements. Data centers and cloud platforms are becoming core operational assets.
In this role, you will lead the development of a comprehensive data center strategy, covering on-premise, co-location, and sovereign cloud models, ensuring high availability, regulatory compliance, and long-term scalability.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Architecture
Define end-to-end data center and hybrid cloud strategy aligned with business objectives.
Develop a phased roadmap for infrastructure modernization.
Translate business and operational needs into technical and architectural requirements.
Scenario & Options Analysis
Evaluate scenarios: co-location, new build, in-house modernization, and partnership models.
Assess edge computing opportunities for distributed operations.
Deliver financial, technical, and risk assessments for each scenario.
Sovereign Cloud & Compliance
Define sovereign cloud strategy for critical workloads.
Assess implications on security, compliance, data sovereignty, and operational resilience.
Provide recommendations aligned with European regulatory requirements.
Resilience & Critical Operations
Design high-availability, disaster recovery, and business continuity strategies.
Define resilience standards for mission-critical, real-time environments.
Ensure scalability and robustness of infrastructure platforms.
Key Deliverables
Data center strategy roadmap (vision, scenarios, and implementation plan).
Cost-benefit and financial evaluation.
Risk and mitigation strategy.
Executive-level presentations and decision material.
Required Profile
Experience
10+ years of experience in data center strategy, architecture, and infrastructure transformation.
Proven experience in co-location, greenfield builds, hybrid models, and RFP/tender processes.
Strong background in sovereign cloud strategy and regulatory environments.
Technical Expertise
Deep knowledge of hybrid cloud and data center infrastructure.
Expertise in network architecture, edge computing, and mission-critical IT environments.
Solid understanding of security, compliance, and resilience frameworks.
Soft Skills
Strong strategic thinking and stakeholder management skills.
Executive-level communication and presentation ability.
Fluent in English; French or Dutch is a strong plus.
Contract Details
Contract type: Freelance / Contract
Duration: 6 months (extension possible)
Workload: Full-time
Location: Brussels Area
Onsite presence: 2 days per week
Questions candidates ask before applying
This depends on the role and the client, but on average our process takes 2–4 weeks from first contact to offer. We keep you informed at every step.
We specialize in roles across the renewable energy sector, including positions in solar, wind (onshore & offshore), green hydrogen, energy storage, grid infrastructure, and sustainability. We recruit for technical, commercial, and project management roles at all levels.
There are multiple ways to apply for a position with us. If you wish to apply directly to a specific job, please visit the job listing and use the "Apply" button to submit your application. Alternatively, if you are interested in an open application or exploring potential opportunities, you can fill out our online form.
We are open to discussing various commercial arrangements depending on the volume and nature of the collaboration. Contact us for a tailored proposal.
Our fees are charged to the hiring company and are based on a percentage of the candidate's annual salary. We discuss this transparently during the intake. There are no costs for candidates.
Yes! You can submit an open application via our website. We'll keep your profile on file and reach out as soon as a suitable opportunity arises.
We conduct thorough interviews to assess both technical competencies and cultural fit. We have an extensive network in the renewable energy sector, which allows us to find both active and passive candidates.
Our process consists of several steps: (1) Intake with the client to understand the role, team, and culture, (2) Active sourcing and screening of candidates, (3) Presentation of a shortlist, (4) Interview coordination, (5) Offer and onboarding support.
We are a passionate, driven team that genuinely believes in the energy transition. We combine a personal approach with deep sector knowledge, and we're committed to making a real impact — for candidates, clients, and the planet.
We cover the full spectrum of renewables: solar PV, onshore and offshore wind, green hydrogen, energy storage, EV infrastructure, and broader sustainability roles. We work with developers, EPCs, OEMs, and utilities.
We ARE Renewables is headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands — one of Europe's key hubs for the energy transition. We operate across Europe and connect renewable energy talent with leading organizations in the sector.
Yes, we recruit both permanent employees and freelance/interim professionals, depending on your project needs.
Depending on the role, we typically present the first shortlist within 1–2 weeks. For specialized or hard-to-fill positions, we set realistic timelines upfront.
We live and breathe renewable energy. Our consultants have a deep understanding of the sector — from the technical landscape to the energy transition trends shaping the industry. We don't just match CVs, we match ambitions.
You can reach out via our contact form or call us directly. We'll schedule an intake to understand your needs and immediately start the search for the right candidates.
Absolutely. We guide you through the entire process, from CV advice to interview tips and salary negotiation support.
Yes, our recruitment services are completely free for candidates. We are paid by the hiring companies, so there are no costs for you at any stage of the process.