Klondike Digital Infrastructure is a power and digital infrastructure company founded by New Fortress Energy. We are leveraging NFE's expertise in constructing and operating power systems, building critical infrastructure, and developing commercial real estate to develop "behind the fence" data center sites around the world. By utilizing behind-the-meter, on-site power, we're addressing all of the major constraints of digital infrastructure development, providing grid stability, significant transmission capacity, power reliability, energy cost savings, and scalability. We are developing a geographically diverse portfolio of data center sites that will satisfy the requirements of hyperscale users.
The Role:
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Director of Land Development to lead and manage all permitting processes for our data center and digital infrastructure projects. In this role, you will be responsible for securing and managing permits and regulatory approvals necessary for project development and operational continuity. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of regulatory frameworks, environmental compliance, and land use requirements, as well as a strong network with government agencies and local jurisdictions. This role requires exceptional communication, organization, and problem-solving skills to support our company's expansion in a compliant and timely manner.
Key Responsibilities:
Permitting Strategy & Planning:
Develop and implement permitting strategies aligned with project timelines, budgets, and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including real estate, construction, and operations, to ensure permitting activities align with project goals.
Track and manage changes in permitting regulations to adapt strategies and maintain compliance.
Project Permitting Management:
Oversee all aspects of the permitting process for new data center builds, expansions, and upgrades across multiple locations.
Ensure timely submission of permit applications, coordinate with project teams to gather necessary documentation, and manage timelines to avoid project delays.
Conduct due diligence on prospective sites to assess permitting feasibility, identifying potential regulatory risks and requirements.
Agency Liaison & Relationship Management:
Serve as the primary point of contact between the company and regulatory agencies, including local, state, and federal authorities.
Build and maintain positive relationships with permitting authorities, fostering open communication and efficient permitting processes.
Advocate for the company's interests in discussions with public officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
Compliance & Environmental Stewardship:
Ensure all permits comply with environmental, safety, and zoning regulations, including air quality, water usage, waste management, and land use.
Lead efforts to secure special permits or exemptions when necessary, addressing environmental or community concerns in collaboration with regulatory bodies.
Stay informed about and ensure compliance with industry-specific regulations and standards for data centers, such as those from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and local zoning boards.
Documentation & Reporting:
Maintain accurate records of all permitting documents, correspondence, approvals, and conditions for audit purposes.
Prepare regular status reports on permitting activities, regulatory developments, and compliance updates for senior management and stakeholders.
Identify and document lessons learned to improve permitting processes and anticipate future regulatory challenges.
Leadership & Team Development:
Lead and develop a team of permitting specialists and consultants, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
Collaborate with external consultants, legal advisors, and engineers to ensure all permitting requirements are met and project objectives are achieved.
Foster a culture of compliance, efficiency, and proactive problem-solving within the team.
Skills & Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Law, Engineering, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
10+ years of experience in permitting, land use, or regulatory compliance, with 5+ years in a leadership role, ideally within data centers, telecom, utilities, or other mission-critical infrastructure industries.
Strong knowledge of permitting and regulatory requirements for data centers or digital infrastructure, including environmental, land use, and zoning laws.
Proven track record of managing permitting processes and securing approvals on time and within budget.
Exceptional interpersonal and negotiation skills with a network of regulatory contacts.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
Proficiency in project management software and permitting systems (experience with GIS tools is a plus).