Start Campus Announces Key Leadership Appointments

By: Julia Terlizzi, Data Center POST Contributor

Start Campus, a company dedicated to advancing sustainable data center solutions, announces the appointment of Robert Dunn as Chief Executive Officer and Luis Rodrigues as Chief Operating Officer.

The appointments signal a strategic move by Start Campus as it progresses with the development of its SINES DC project, a 495 MW data center campus in Portugal.

Rob Dunn, who has been serving as Interim Chief Executive Officer since November 2023, brings more than 15 years’ experience in the data center industry to his leadership role at Start Campus. Dunn’s proven leadership in his previous positions including Head of Design and Delivery at the company has been pivotal in overseeing the development of SINES DC. The first phase of the project is nearing completion and SINES DC aims to become one of Europe’s largest and most sustainable data ecosystems.

“I am excited to continue leading Start Campus as CEO during this crucial phase of growth,” said Dunn. “Our mission to establish sustainable data center ecosystems and redefine industry standards remains unwavering.”

Luis Rodrigues, appointed as Chief Operating Officer, brings over 15 years’ expertise in data center operations and management to his role at the company. Since joining Start Campus in 2021, Rodrigues has been instrumental in establishing a strong operations team, previously serving as the company’s Head of Data Center Operations.

“Our focus on operational excellence and client-centric solutions positions us uniquely in the industry,” said Rodrigues. “I look forward to driving continued efficiency across our operations.”

Start Campus is developing the SINES DC project in Portugal, which offers maximum flexibility and optionality for customers with powered shell, turn-key, and build-to-suit solutions. With a total investment of €3.5 billion, SINES DC aims to operate on 100% renewable energy, targeting an industry-leading PUE of 1.1 by harnessing cooling power from the ocean. Start Campus aims to achieve Net Zero status by 2030.

The Start Campus team now boasts over 50 employees with deep knowledge of requirements for mission critical projects, and is supported by over 700 local and international contractors on the SINES DC site. 

For more information, visit: www.startcampus.pt.