Practice Director

Practice Director
Baton Rouge, LA (onsite)
Perm Role

Summary
Client is seeking a highly motivated Practice Director Data Center to establish and lead a new business unit focused on environmental permitting and regulatory approvals for data centers, power generation, and energy infrastructure. This is a client-facing, market-building leadership role responsible for driving strategy, developing client relationships, and building a scalable consulting practice. As the subject matter expert for data centers and the first hire in this venture, this individual will play a foundational role in shaping the business, leading go-to-market efforts, and building a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute go-to-market strategies targeting hyperscalers, co-location operators, and data center developers
• Build and scale the data center practice, including hiring, mentoring, and leading a team
• Establish and cultivate relationships with hyperscaler clients, developers, operators, and strategic partners
• Lead proposal development, client presentations, and commercial negotiations
• Provide strategic guidance on permitting and regulatory compliance including air quality, NPDES, stormwater, and Section 401/404
• Oversee delivery of engagements including permitting roadmaps, agency coordination, and site due diligence
• Collaborate with internal technical teams to deliver integrated solutions
• Drive cross-selling opportunities and expand existing client relationships
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and competitor positioning
• Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and client meetings
• Travel as required (up to approximately 50%)

• Bachelor s degree from an accredited institution
• Deep expertise in environmental regulations including NEPA, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, GHG permitting, and state-level frameworks
• Strong understanding of data center development lifecycle, construction, and cost structures
• Familiarity with utility interconnection, temporary power systems, and energy storage frameworks
• Proven experience building or leading a practice within a professional services firm or on the owner/operator side
• Demonstrated ability to drive business development and deliver consulting programs
• Strong organizational skills and ability to operate in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM systems
• Experience supporting project or program delivery
• Established network within data centers, hyperscalers, power generation, utilities, or large industrial sectors
• Experience scaling a service line or practice and mentoring teams
• Familiarity with multi-jurisdictional permitting and complex stakeholder environments
• Experience with Salesforce or similar CRM platforms