Manager, Data Center Ops

As the Manager of Data Center Operations at Rackspace Technology, you will be responsible for managing a dedicated team of Data Center Operations Technicians. Key duties include ensuring 24x7 coverage, setting measurable goals for employees, managing maintenance tasks in a timely manner, conducting performance reviews, and acting as an escalation point for customer-impacting issues. Your attention to housekeeping standards through regular audits and engagement with your team will be crucial in maintaining operational excellence.

To qualify for the Manager, Data Center Ops role at Rackspace Technology, candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as computer science, although extensive experience may substitute for the degree. A minimum of 9 years in data center operations and design, along with 3 years of management experience, is necessary. Familiarity with local and wide area networks, server management, as well as various software applications enhances your application.

Rackspace Technology is committed to the professional growth of its employees, including those in the Manager, Data Center Ops role. The company fosters a culture of ongoing learning and development through training initiatives, mentorship programs, and opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technologies. This supportive environment encourages employees to expand their skill sets and advance their careers within the organization.

At Rackspace Technology, the work environment for a Manager, Data Center Ops is dynamic and collaborative. You will be part of a vibrant team culture that celebrates diverse perspectives, placing a strong emphasis on innovation and effective problem-solving. The organization is regularly recognized as a top employer, reflecting its commitment to creating an inclusive atmosphere where every individual’s contributions are valued.

Employees in the Manager, Data Center Ops role at Rackspace Technology enjoy a competitive benefits package that includes comprehensive healthcare, generous paid time off, retirement plans, and professional development resources. The company values work-life balance and promotes a healthy lifestyle, as part of their holistic approach to employee well-being.

In answering this question, highlight your previous experience managing teams within data center environments. Discuss your leadership style, how you've handled team conflicts, and strategies you've used to engage and motivate team members to achieve their goals.

Demonstrate your ability to manage multiple priorities by explaining your approach to task organization. Consider discussing techniques such as using performance metrics and regular team meetings to ensure clarity and accountability for both urgent and long-term projects.

Detail how you implement compliance measures in your operations. You might mention conducting regular audits, maintaining clear documentation, and training your team on policies and procedures to ensure everyone understands the importance of compliance.

Prepare a specific example where you successfully navigated a challenge in your previous role. Focus on the steps you took to identify the issue, the collaboration with team members for solutions, and the positive outcomes that resulted from your actions.

Discuss your philosophy on team development, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and skills enhancement. Include how you assess training needs and create personalized development plans for your team members, ensuring they remain proficient and motivated.

Highlight the proactive strategies you implement to maximize uptime, such as routine maintenance schedules, real-time monitoring systems, and creating contingency plans for potential issues, while also emphasizing fostering a culture of accountability among the team.

Explain your communication style and how you foster an open environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. You might also mention tools or regular meetings you use to keep everyone informed and engaged.

Share your method for addressing underperformance, including setting clear expectations, conducting regular performance reviews, and providing constructive feedback. Emphasize the importance of understanding the root causes and taking a supportive approach to help employees improve.

Demonstrate your knowledge of the 5S methodology—Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain—and provide examples of how you have incorporated these principles to improve efficiency and maintain cleanliness within the data center.

Express your commitment to professional growth by mentioning specific resources you utilize to stay informed, such as industry publications, webinars, or professional associations. This shows your passion for the field and your desire to bring innovative ideas to Rackspace Technology.