Company Profile
nLighten is a European platform of distributed edge data centers, designed to meet the growing demand for AI, 5G, and hybrid cloud deployments. As a rapidly expanding provider, we offer scalable colocation hubs and best-in-class energy solutions across Europe. Our innovative and sustainable approach to digital infrastructure ensures reliability, efficiency, and future-ready solutions for our clients. nLighten's current footprint is 34 data centers in 7 European countries, with the ambition to grow to 100 sites during the next 3-4 years.
Learn more about us: www.nlighten.com
About the Role
We are seeking a Director Project Controls (m/w/d) to lead cost management, commercial oversight, and financial governance across nLighten's expanding European construction portfolio. This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role, responsible for strong cost control throughout the full lifecycle of data center development projects, from early-stage planning and procurement through construction delivery and project close-out.
You will partner closely with the Construction, Finance, Procurement, and senior leadership teams to provide accurate forecasting, commercial insight, and clear reporting in a fast-scaling international environment.
The successful candidate reports directly to the Group CFO and leads a team of cost professionals based across Europe. For the right candidate there is flexibility on which of nLighten's main offices serves as their base; however, regular travel to development sites and physical presence for direct reports is essential.
Key Responsibilities
Cost planning & commercial management
- Lead project budgeting, forecasting, and cost planning across all project phases
- Review and oversee cost estimates, tender evaluations, and contractor pricing submissions
- Benchmark project costs across the portfolio and support investment case (business case) preparation
- Advise stakeholders on the cost impact of design development and project changes
Cost control & reporting
- Monitor project spend, interim payment applications (Abschlagsrechnungen), variations and supplementary claims (Nachträge), contractor claims, and contingency usage
- Maintain accurate forecasts and report regularly on commitments, risks, and forecast outturn
- Identify and communicate potential cost overruns and commercial risks early
- Support final account settlement (Schlussrechnung / Abnahme) and post-completion cost analysis
Governance & stakeholder management
- Ensure robust commercial and financial controls across projects
- Support procurement, contract administration, and capitalisation processes
- Act as a key point of contact for construction cost reporting and commercial insight
- Build strong relationships across Finance, Procurement, Construction, and Executive Leadership
- Support the development of the growing Project Controls function
What We're Looking For
- A completed university degree (Diplom/Master, ideally TU/FH) in a relevant field such as Civil Engineering (Bauingenieurwesen), Architecture, Construction Management (Baumanagement/Baubetrieb), Quantity Surveying, or a comparable commercial-technical discipline (Master's level preferred given the strategic nature of the role)
- A recognized professional background in construction cost management is an advantage — for example membership of a relevant body such as the RICS (MRICS) or AACE, or qualification as an öffentlich bestellter und vereidigter Sachverständiger (publicly appointed and sworn expert) in construction cost matters
- 10+ years of experience in cost management, commercial management, project controls, or quantity surveying within large-scale construction or infrastructure environments
- Demonstrable experience leading a team and developing direct reports, or the clear capability to do so
- Experience within data centers, mission-critical environments, construction, engineering, or real estate development is a strong advantage
- Strong understanding of project financial controls, forecasting, contract administration, and commercial governance
- Familiarity with German contract and procurement frameworks (e.g. VOB/A, VOB/B, VOB/C, the HOAI fee structure, BGB construction contract provisions, and DIN 276 cost planning) is a plus; experience with international contract forms (e.g. FIDIC, NEC) is also valuable
- Proven experience managing complex, multi-site, or international construction projects
- Strong analytical, reporting, and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to communicate complex project-status information clearly and concisely to stakeholders of differing seniority and varying levels of construction knowledge
- Comfortable operating in both strategic and hands-on capacities within a fast-growing business
- Willingness and ability to travel regularly to European project sites
- Fluent in English (the company's working language); proficiency in German is a strong advantage, and additional European languages are a plus
Why Join Us?
- Join a fast-growing company shaping the future of digital infrastructure in Europe
- Take on a high-impact leadership role across major European construction projects
- Help build and shape a growing Project Controls function
- Work in a dynamic international environment with real ownership and visibility
- Be part of a collaborative team focused on innovation, growth, and operational excellence
If you have the right experience and are excited about contributing to the next evolution of edge data centers, we'd love to hear from you
Apply now and be part of our journey toward a more connected, efficient, and sustainable digital future.
Background Check & Screening
All selected candidates will undergo a background check to ensure a safe workplace, protect company assets, and comply with regulations.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
nLighten is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, and we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Even if you do not meet every requirement listed, we welcome your application. We particularly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.
