Specialise in: data centre management

When we think of cutting-edge technology our minds naturally turn to AI, robotics, supercomputers – the headline grabbers, rather than the unsung heroes on which all these rely for their continued innovation.

Among the engines of technology are data centres – buildings containing networked computer servers that remotely store, process or distribute large amounts of data for organisations, governments and the public. There are several types, including enterprise (on-premises) centres, managed data centres and co-location facilities, and public cloud data centres.

What we refer to as the cloud is in fact a data centre, or more precisely, a great many data centres spread across the world. The largest ‘big box’ buildings handle cloud data, and are often called hyperscale data centres; they are run by major cloud service providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, Microsoft Azure and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.

The rapid growth of real-time, data-intensive workloads such as big data analytics, AI and content delivery is creating huge demand for data centres. There are, as a result, significant supply challenges, particularly relating to power capacity, environmental impact and real estate.

For a finance professional, it is an exciting industry.

‘What I enjoy most is the opportunity to develop expertise in data centre operations, networking, and technical areas,’ says Hester Chew FCCA, a finance manager at data centre provider Princeton Digital Group. ‘I’ve gained valuable insights into how these affect costs and inform business decisions. I’ve also learned about the 24/7 nature of data centres and the critical role staff play in ensuring continuous operations.

‘As I’ve progressed, I’ve realised that combining financial knowledge with data centre expertise can position professionals for leadership roles that involve strategic planning and organisational thinking. The company’s commitment to staff development is impressive, offering benefits like career growth opportunities, support for career progression, and access to courses for personal development. This nurturing environment empowers staff to reach their full potential and take on new challenges.’

Career scope

Finance roles in data centre companies closely mirror those in other sectors. Chew’s responsibilities, for example, will be familiar to most finance managers: month-end closing and financial reporting; FP&A and strategic financial planning; cashflow management and optimisation; tax compliance and filing; year-end audit and financial statement preparation; and cross-functional business finance partnering.

But there are sector specifics that need to be understood too. These include IT infrastructure basics such as networking, servers and data storage, as well as expertise in managing operational aspects, such as energy management, cooling systems and disaster recovery processes.

Intricate financial modelling is another unique aspect. Models must consider the distinct characteristics of data centre operations to enable precise forecasting and informed decision-making. You also need proficiency in advanced data analytics tools to query complex financial and operational data, to uncover trends, risks and financial opportunities, to track performance metrics and to develop innovative solutions for optimising operations and addressing operational challenges.

Finally, you’ll be expected to translate complex financial information into actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders, including IT and operations teams. ‘I collaborate with various departments to align financial strategies with technical goals,’ says Chew. ‘That requires me to remain calm under pressure and manage stress effectively in a high-stakes environment.’

Getting in and getting on

FP&A professionals with experience of data centres or the wider technology sector are highly sought after for their hands-on knowledge of cost optimisation, procurement strategies and efficiency enhancements.

While experience with complex cost management, risk mitigation and infrastructure investment will also be valuable, strong decision-making, leadership and effective communication skills are a big advantage.

The core ACCA qualification is unquestionably a good fit for the sector, and can be bolstered by several other professional certificates and diplomas, such as those in business analytics, digital innovation or international financial reporting. Given the focus on expansion at data centre companies, a CFA certificate for investment analysis and strategic financial planning will look good.

Professional growth can easily be satisfied by remaining in the sector. Advanced budgeting and cost analysis experience, alongside a deep understanding of data centre costs and operations, will position you well for leadership roles in the strategic management of capital and operational expenditure, as well as the development and implementation of cost optimisation strategies to drive efficiency and profitability.

Chew recommends leveraging risk management and acquiring hands-on experience in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity and data protection. ‘This specialised knowledge will enable a transition into roles focused on enterprise risk management, IT governance or internal audit, where you can utilise your financial expertise and risk management skills to identify and mitigate potential threats,’ she explains.

Lastly, there’s the chance to specialise in M&A by focusing on the evaluation, integration and optimisation of IT assets. ‘By mastering valuation, due diligence and integration planning, there is a chance to move into senior roles in corporate development or M&A advisory,’ Chew says.