Global Thermal Laboratory Director (Data Center Cooling - HVAC)

Job Description: Global Thermal Laboratory Director (Data Center Cooling - HVAC)

Reporting To: Vice President, Thermal Advanced Engineering and Systems

Job Summary

The Global Thermal Laboratory Director will spearhead the strategic development, operation, and expansion of laboratories dedicated to advancing innovations in data center cooling systems. This individual will be responsible for overseeing laboratory functions globally, ensuring cutting-edge research, testing, and product development to meet the growing needs of data centers. In addition, this individual will liaise regularly with each product line and sales to understand customer Witness Testing needs and ensure operational and strategic plans are fully capable of supporting growth in this area. The role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and a comprehensive understanding of HVAC systems and data center cooling. The Global Laboratory Leader will also drive CAPEX and OPEX investment strategies to ensure laboratory facilities are equipped to deliver top-tier results across multiple regions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the global strategy for laboratory operations to support innovation in data center cooling solutions.
• Development Interlock: Align with the NPDI, Advanced Engineering, Academia and 3^rd Party bodies on global road maps, ensuring laboratory capabilities support strategic plans.
• Customer Witness Testing: Ensure appropriate investments and resources are in place to manage growing global requirements for customer witness testing
• Lab Operations Management: Oversee the day-to-day operations of laboratories across various regions, ensuring high standards in research, testing, and product validation.
• Investment Planning: Identify and propose investment opportunities to enhance lab capabilities, including equipment upgrades, facility expansions, and new technology integration.
• Cross-Regional Collaboration: Coordinate with regional teams to align laboratory efforts, design and equipment with local market needs, regulatory standards, and customer demands.
• Innovation & R&D: Lead research and development initiatives focused on improving energy efficiency, sustainability, and performance of cooling systems used in data centers.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all laboratory operations meet international and regional safety standards, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance protocols.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders including engineering teams, product managers, vendors, and clients to ensure lab outputs align with business goals.
• Budget & Resource Management: Manage the global laboratory budget, ensuring efficient use of resources while meeting the objectives for technological advancements.
• Talent Development: Lead and mentor a diverse, global team of laboratory professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Ensure that comprehensive data from lab tests and research are accurately analyzed, interpreted, and reported to guide decision-making.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees (PhD) in relevant disciplines are a plus.
• Experience: At least 10 years of experience in laboratory management, with a focus on HVAC systems or data center cooling technology. Prior experience in global or multi-regional roles is preferred.
• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of HVAC technologies, particularly in data center cooling applications, including an understanding of thermal management, energy efficiency, and sustainability practices.
• Leadership: Proven leadership in managing cross-functional teams across multiple regions, with strong skills in project management, budgeting, and investment planning.
• Innovation Mindset: Demonstrated experience in driving R&D projects, implementing innovative solutions, and pushing the boundaries of current technologies in the HVAC industry.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex data and insights to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Travel: Willingness to travel internationally to oversee laboratory operations and collaborate with regional teams.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of cooling technology for data centers on a global scale. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strategic vision, technical proficiency, and operational leadership.

Laboratories in Scope:

• Columbus USA
• Padova Italy
• Nove Mesto Slovakia
• Monterrey Mexico
• Other locations may be in the scope of this role in the future

The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv’s Core Principals & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities. 

OUR CORE PRINCIPALS:  Safety.  Integrity.  Respect.  Teamwork.  Diversity & Inclusion.

OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

•  Customer Focus

•  Operational Excellence

•  High-Performance Culture

•  Innovation

•  Financial Strength

OUR BEHAVIORS

•  Own It

•  Act With Urgency

•  Foster a Customer-First Mindset

•  Think Big and Execute

•  Lead by Example

•  Drive Continuous Improvement

•  Learn and Seek Out Development

About Vertiv

At Vertiv, we offer the stability of a global leader in a growing industry and the opportunity of a startup. We design, manufacture and service the mission-critical infrastructure technologies for vital applications in data centers, communication networks and commercial and industrial environments. With $8.0 billion in revenue, a strong customer base and global reach in nearly 70 countries, our move to establish a standalone business enables us to deliver greater value to our customers and create new opportunities for our people.   

Work Authorization

No calls or agencies please. Vertiv will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Vertiv is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We promote equal opportunities for all with respect to hiring, terms of employment, mobility, training, compensation, and occupational health, without discrimination as to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression (including transgender status or sexual stereotypes), genetic information, citizenship status, national origin, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by sending an email to help.join@vertiv.com.

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