Service Integration & Transition Manager (Data Center) (m/f/d)

For a major infrastructure transformation programme, we are looking for two experienced Service Integration & Transition Managers. The programme includes the migration to a new data centre environment as well as the transformation of IT services, tools, processes, and operating models. Details: Start: October / November 2026Duration: 12-18 months++Onsite requirement: 3-5 consecutive days once a month OR 2-3 days per weekLanguage: EnglishRegion: EU, able to flexibly travel to Germany and UK Team Option: Tandem / Team applications are preferred, (ideally they have worked together before) Both consultants must have the same level of expertise and seniority. A senior-junior combination is not desired. The objective of this role is to ensure stable day-to-day operations while supporting the successful delivery of the programme. The Transition Manager will work closely with internal project teams, service owners, subject matter experts, and external service providers. They will coordinate transition activities, manage dependencies, and ensure internal resources are efficiently engaged.A key element of the role is acting as the operational interface between the new service provider, the incumbent service provider, and internal technology, operations, and business teams. The focus will be on knowledge transfer, operational readiness, service integration, and the seamless handover of services and responsibilities into the future operating model.This is a hands-on operational role for a highly organised individual who thrives in dynamic environments and can effectively engage with technical, operational, and business stakeholders alike. Required Skills & Experience1. Technical ExpertiseStrong knowledge of:Data Centre TechnologiesCompute platforms (server environments)Virtualisation technologies (e.g. VMware, Hyper-V, Nutanix)Storage solutionsBackup and recovery systemsCloud TechnologiesMicrosoft AzureHybrid cloud environmentsAzure Landing ZonesCloud governance and operating models 2. Transition & Transformation ExperienceProven experience in:Data centre migrationsData centre relocationsCloud migration programmesCloud transformation initiativesService transitionsInfrastructure modernisation programmesManaged Service Provider onboarding and transitionEnterprise service operations environmentsITIL Service Transition and Service OperationsExperience managing:Migration planning and executionCutover activitiesRollback planningOperational readiness assessmentsHypercare modelsComplex programmes with multiple parallel workstreamsExperience in fast-paced enterprise environments with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities is also required. 3. Service Integration ExperienceProven experience acting as the interface between internal teams and external service providersExperience with outsourcing, insourcing, or managed service transitionsExperience in service takeovers, knowledge transfer, and operational handoversExperience in complex stakeholder environments involving multiple vendors and partnersStrong understanding of IT Service Management principles and transition frameworks 4. Preferred CertificationsPRINCE2 PractitionerAgile Practitioner or Scrum certificationITIL Foundation or higherSIAM FoundationMicrosoft Azure certifications 5. Personal AttributesStrong leadership and stakeholder management skillsExcellent communication and influencing skillsHighly organised with strong attention to detailProactive and results-oriented approachStrong problem-solving and decision-making abilitiesAbility to work effectively under pressureComfortable dealing with ambiguity and changing circumstancesStrong team collaboration skills with the ability to align diverse teams towards common objectives Scope & Responsibilities:1. Transition & Migration ManagementAccountable for service operational readiness during the transition to the new operating modelCoordinate cloud and data centre migration activitiesDevelop and maintain transition plans, migration schedules, cutover plans, and readiness assessmentsManage migration waves, service onboarding, operational readiness activities, and hypercare phasesCoordinate infrastructure, network, cloud, security, application, and service management teamsEnsure service continuity and minimise operational disruptionManage escalations and issue resolution during critical migration phasesSupport governance processes and adherence to programme milestonesTrack service acceptance criteria and readiness checkpoints 2. Service Provider Integration & Transition ManagementAct as the primary interface between the new service provider and internal technology, operations, and business teamsSupport knowledge transfer and service transition activities between the incumbent and new service providersEnsure alignment of processes, tools, governance models, and service management practicesCoordinate service onboarding and service transition activities with the new managed service providerOrganise workshops, service acceptance activities, and operational readiness assessmentsManage and resolve cross-functional risks, dependencies, and issuesBuild strong relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and project partnersSupport the transition of services, operational processes, and responsibilities into the new operating model 3. Programme & Governance ManagementMaintain and manage RAID logs (Risks, Assumptions, Issues, and Dependencies), including action plansMonitor progress against agreed milestones and deliverablesProduce and present status reports for programme leadership and stakeholdersFacilitate governance meetings, steering committees, and project reviewsEnsure compliance with defined governance standardsEscalate risks that may impact service acceptance or ongoing operations 4. Operational Readiness AssuranceCoordinate knowledge transfer sessions and readiness activitiesReview operational documentation, support processes, and runbooksSupport testing, cutover rehearsals, rollback planning, and approvalsEnsure support teams are fully prepared following migrationCoordinate hypercare and early-life support activities after transition