{"id":7539,"date":"2026-03-06T08:44:27","date_gmt":"2026-03-06T04:44:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tbhconsultancy.com\/mena\/?p=7539"},"modified":"2026-03-09T14:48:50","modified_gmt":"2026-03-09T10:48:50","slug":"driving-the-data-tbh-raises-the-bar-on-data-centre-delivery","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tbhconsultancy.com\/mena\/driving-the-data-tbh-raises-the-bar-on-data-centre-delivery\/","title":{"rendered":"Driving the Data: TBH Raises the Bar on Data Centre Delivery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With<\/span><\/i><\/b><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u202f<\/span><\/i><\/b><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Rob Hammond, Director &amp; Global Data Centre\u202fLead;\u00a0Meiske\u202fSompie, Director\u00a0(Asia); Stephen Topp, Director (Middle East); and Stuart Cassie, Director (Strategic Advisory).<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This interview was the cover story for the October 2025 issue of\u00a0<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/issuu.com\/cpitrade\/docs\/mec_sep_oct_2025_\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Middle East Consultant<\/span><\/i><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Fact. Data Centres are an indispensable element of global connectivity, yet their conception, delivery and operation bring a raft of complex issues requiring profound technical and environmental solutions. As specialists in high-risk,\u00a0large-scale\u00a0and challenging projects, TBH is at the forefront of this new era of Data Centre enterprise, and here, four of the firm&#8217;s senior executives explain the commitment,\u00a0protocols\u00a0and robust, proven experience behind that consistently innovative vision&#8230;<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this in-depth Q&amp;A, Rob Hammond,\u00a0Director and Global Data Centre Lead;\u00a0Meiske Sompie, Director (Asia); Stephen\u00a0Topp, Director (Middle East); and Stuart\u00a0Cassie, Director, Strategic Advisory, bring\u00a0together the different facets of the Data\u00a0Centre paradigm; their remarks show\u00a0how fully understanding the regional\u00a0dynamics, regulatory frameworks and\u00a0evolving needs of the Energy sector have\u00a0allowed TBH to deliver some of the most\u00a0advanced digital hubs in the world.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ROB HAMMOND\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Rob, how do you communicate the confidence of an evolved strategic vision to diverse senior executives who are all too aware of the complexities of Data Centre conception and delivery?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAt the senior executive level, the key is translating highly technical,\u00a0construction-focused language into a strategic commercial narrative that speaks directly to business priorities.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cRemember, executives are not necessarily concerned with the intricacies of design or engineering, rather they want to know what it means commercially. Will it create penalties, cause reputational damage, threaten operational\u00a0continuity\u00a0or undermine long-term value? Our role is to make these links clear. That means distilling complexity into structured insights: here are the opportunities, here are the risks, here are the areas where risk mitigation is\u00a0required. It is less about explaining why a design detail is technically substandard and more about articulating that it may result in a commercial liability under a lease or expose the organisation to operational risk. Equally important is providing pragmatic solutions that address those concerns, so that even within complexity major stakeholders are reassured with a clear understanding of risk mitigation and return on investment.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Some markets &#8211; Australian is a key example &#8211; set the bar\u00a0very high\u00a0in terms of their regulatory framework; how does this drive TBH\u2019s vision and influence factors such as scenario planning and operational projections?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThe bar is indeed set exceptionally high in Australia, not only in terms of rigorous regulatory frameworks but also the high-spec, stringent operational requirements of hyperscale tenants such as Microsoft,\u00a0Google\u00a0and Meta. This dual pressure means projects must not only\u00a0comply with\u00a0regulation but also achieve \u2018five nines\u2019 reliability, meaning approximately five minutes of downtime per year. Owners,\u00a0tenants\u00a0and financiers who have billions at stake require confidence that facilities will\u00a0operate\u00a0without interruption for many years.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cOur approach is to balance these layers of\u00a0expectation;\u00a0regulatory compliance, tenant operational\u00a0requirements\u00a0and commercial feasibility. That means asking: how do we achieve absolute reliability without \u2018gold plating\u2019 the facility to the point where it becomes commercially unviable? We run scenario planning that considers today\u2019s hurdles as well as what facilities will need to deliver in\u00a020 or 30 years\u2019\u00a0time. Future requirements around technological demands, green energy, water\u00a0efficiency\u00a0and environmental sustainability are already shaping design and operational projections.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To what extent has TBH\u2019s significant project experience in the Energy sector proved a catalyst for securing Data Centre projects of the highest level?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cOur long-standing experience in the energy sector has been critical in building credibility and capability in the data centre market. The core building of a data centre is\u00a0relatively straightforward\u00a0&#8211; concrete and steel. What makes these projects complex is the integration of energy systems: bringing high-voltage power from the grid, distributing it through multiple redundant\u00a0circuits\u00a0and ensuring resilience through commissioning. Our energy background means we understand the technical, safety and delivery challenges of those systems in detail.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cBut\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0not just energy. What has really positioned us as leaders in this space is our broader experience in large-scale, high-risk, time-critical projects. In this environment, the ultimate measure of success is delivery on time and to quality, far more than cost. We bring a macro perspective: mapping long-lead items, planning around regulatory approvals and ensuring mitigation strategies are in place when delays arise. That capability, proven across energy, infrastructure and other complex sectors, is why the biggest names in the industry, from\u00a0AirTrunk\u00a0to AWS, have trusted us to deliver their most critical programmes.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Data Centres have huge contemporary significance; what is TBH\u2019s vision for delivering projects that have resonance and exceed expectations? How do you do things differently and better &#8211; and really stand out from the pack?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAt TBH, delivering projects on time, to quality and with precision is the baseline. It is what our clients expect, and it is what we have consistently delivered for over 60 years. But what truly sets us apart is that we look beyond the immediate. Technology is evolving at extraordinary speed, demand profiles are shifting and we need ever-greater power,\u00a0cooling\u00a0and space\u2026 and at\u00a0the same time, communities and regulators expect greater efficiency and sustainability. Our role is to think 20 years ahead, ensuring data centres are not only fit for purpose today but adaptable and resilient for the future, balancing digital growth with responsible use of scarce resources like water and energy.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cJust as important is our ability to align diverse stakeholders around that vision. We work with governments, tenants, builders, communities, and we understand what each stakeholder requires\u00a0in order to\u00a0make a project a success. We translate complex technical and commercial issues into terms that resonate with every group and create a shared roadmap that ensures delivery is not only possible, but successful for all involved.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cCompliance is non-negotiable, and proactive engagement with authorities is essential to keep projects on schedule.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">MEISKE SOMPIE<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What do you see as the main \u2018USPs\u2019 that have enabled TBH to make such strong inroads into the multi-billion-dollar Asian Data Centre market?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThe first thing I should say is that Asia is not a homogeneous market like Australia, where standards, costs and maturity levels are broadly consistent across cities. Each Asian country brings its own government policies, levels of market maturity, cultural\u00a0context\u00a0and delivery practices. Our strength has been recognising and embracing those differences, while focusing on what is universally essential to data centre delivery. We avoid imposing a single \u2018Western\u2019 playbook; instead, we adapt to local conditions and ask: what works best here? For example, what may at first appear unfamiliar, such as bamboo scaffolding in place of steel, can in fact be highly effective in certain contexts.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cYet amid this diversity, some fundamentals are non-negotiable. Every successful project must have a clear plan, a robust construction schedule, engaged stakeholders and a defined budget. The level of detail may vary, but these disciplines cannot be compromised without risking control. Our ability to balance respect for local practices with steadfast adherence to delivery fundamentals has been central to our success across Asia\u2019s highly varied markets.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u00a0particular challenges\u00a0have you had to overcome when delivering projects in acutely land-constrained territories as Jakarta,\u00a0Japan\u00a0and Singapore &#8211; particularly since these are also some of the most discerning and mature urban hubs in the world?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cBuilding data centres in dense urban hubs such as Jakarta, Japan and Singapore presents unique challenges. These are some of the most discerning and mature markets in the world, yet they are also among the most\u00a0space-constrained. Success begins with understanding government policy and city\u00a0administration, because\u00a0delivery often requires measures that\u00a0impact\u00a0the broader community. This could mean road closures for crane lifts, temporary utility interruptions or restrictions on transport and\u00a0logistics. Compliance is non-negotiable, and proactive engagement with authorities is essential to keep projects on schedule.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cEqually critical is open communication with local businesses and residents. Dedicated community liaison helps minimise disruption, whether that means scheduling noisy works after hours, compressing activities into shorter periods or adjusting\u00a0logistics\u00a0around peak use. We also plan carefully for impacts such as dust,\u00a0vibration\u00a0and access, which can affect daily life in high-density areas.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cOur role is to balance these competing pressures with rigorous scheduling and stakeholder co-ordination, ensuring delivery\u00a0remains\u00a0efficient,\u00a0compliant\u00a0and respectful of the surrounding communities.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With TBH\u2019s 60 years of\u00a0expertise, and your\u00a0own\u00a020 years of experience, what are the key lessons\u00a0you\u2019ve\u00a0learned about client liaison, and inspiring trust in\u00a0complex, high-risk\u00a0project\u00a0conception\u00a0and delivery? Plus, Data Centres involve extremely broad stakeholder networks &#8211; so, how do you cost-in everyone\u2019s priorities and concerns, and risk-fit (especially with powerful telcos and utilities providers)?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cInspiring trust begins with honesty and independence. We are open in our communications, we do not make promises we cannot keep, and we treat all parties fairly. If another stakeholder has\u00a0a strong case, we tell our client directly, because informed decisions require clear sight of both strengths and weaknesses. This perspective, in addition to our independence as a privately held firm, is a core\u00a0reason why\u00a0we are trusted by investors, governments, contractors and owners alike. Clients know we are on their side, but never sycophantic; our role is to give them the truth, backed by analysis and experience.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cLarge data centre projects involve a broad network of stakeholders, including powerful telcos and utilities. Here our approach is to\u00a0identify\u00a0common goals and build delivery roadmaps that clarify roles,\u00a0responsibilities\u00a0and sequences of work. We gain buy-in by speaking each party\u2019s language, whether commercial,\u00a0technical\u00a0or regulatory, and by\u00a0demonstrating\u00a0how collaboration delivers benefits for all. When people see genuine alignment and independence rather than an agenda, trust follows.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What importance do you attach to the end-user\u2019s experience? How far \u2018down the telescope\u2019 do you look when providing\u00a0optimum\u00a0strategic delivery?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cFor us, the end-user\u2019s experience is not just a measure of satisfaction &#8211; it is a key driver of commercial success. Our role is to ensure that strategy,\u00a0sequencing\u00a0and delivery are aligned so that the investment translates into an asset that performs as intended and generates long-term value.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cLooking \u2018down the telescope\u2019 means keeping line of sight from the earliest strategic decisions through to the operational outcomes. This approach helps our clients avoid misalignment between intent and delivery, reduce wasted capital, and make sure that every decision on time, cost, and risk\u00a0ultimately protects\u00a0both the user experience and the financial return.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You sit on TBH\u2019s Inclusivity and Diversity Committee; what lessons have you learned in terms of the role of cultural intelligence and how it best empowers TBH\u2019s market presence?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAt TBH, diversity and inclusivity are values we live internally, but they also shape how we\u00a0operate\u00a0externally. They allow us to connect across cultures and markets, and in doing so, they strengthen our market presence and our ability to deliver consistently at a global level.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cIn Asia, cultural intelligence is essential. Every country has its own ways of making decisions, conducting\u00a0business\u00a0and defining value. Success depends on recognising those differences, listening\u00a0carefully\u00a0and adapting our approach to each environment rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model. When we engage genuinely and respectfully with local partners, we build that trust quickly and represent our clients more effectively.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThis approach is also a competitive advantage. Clients and stakeholders can tell the difference between a firm imposing external methods and one that is committed to learning and working with the local context.\u00a0Ultimately, the\u00a0cultural\u00a0know-how\u00a0we have built over decades enables us to deliver consistency at a global level while\u00a0remaining\u00a0sensitive to the local environments where projects take shape.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8220;We&#8217;ve seen significant commitment to digital\u00a0transformation and an integrated &#8216;smart city&#8217;\u00a0approach across the giga-portfolios that we are\u00a0supporting across the Kingdom.&#8221;<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">STEPHEN TOPP\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With your considerable industry experience across Australia,\u00a0Asia\u00a0and the Middle East, what are the lessons that\u00a0you\u2019ve\u00a0learned about the power of effective knowledge transfer?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cKnowledge transfer is an extremely powerful tool that can shorten the learning curve in the delivery of complex projects. By\u00a0identifying\u00a0common challenges\u00a0and best practices that have previously been successfully implemented for a specific type of project, in this case Data Centres, teams can deliver more efficiently and with greater confidence.\u00a0TBH employs knowledge transfer across all sectors and geographies, regularly deploying subject matter experts based in our Australian and Asian offices to supplement our Middle East teams on projects in their area of expertise, and vice versa.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAn area where knowledge transfer can be particularly impactful is in identification of risks and understanding of\u00a0subsequent\u00a0mitigation strategies that have or have not been successful in similar scenarios. However, it is essential that these lessons learned are applied in the local context, with a strong understanding of regional differences guiding the implementation of\u00a0appropriate lessons\u00a0learned and global best practices.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How do you see the importance of a new and powerful Data Centre infrastructure in the Middle East, particularly in the context of the Saudi Giga-projects and their commitment to a Smart City agenda?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cWe&#8217;ve seen significant commitment to digital transformation and an integrated &#8216;smart city&#8217; approach across the giga-portfolios that we are supporting across the Kingdom. Appropriate capacity and quality of Data Centres is obviously essential to the success of these initiatives. The intensive demand of such portfolios is also a key driver in determining optimal locations and the required timing for the roll-out of Data Centre capacity, whilst the localised infrastructure required downstream will also put a lot of stress on the homogeneous specialist resources required to deliver these assets. Another key driver in demand for Data Centre capacity is the growing requirement for Data Sovereignty, the ambition of which is significantly under-serviced currently in\u00a0a number of\u00a0Middle East markets.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What do you see as the greatest challenge in deployment of significant\u00a0additional\u00a0Data Centre Capacity in the Middle East in the short-term?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAs is the case with the delivery of complex assets across most development sectors in the Middle East, specialised labour resources will be a challenge with the quantum of assets\u00a0planned for concurrent delivery in the Data Centre sector, alongside the competing demands of giga-portfolio developments. Similar constraints also apply to specialised plant and equipment, including switchgear,\u00a0chillers\u00a0and generators.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAnother key challenge, also being faced in many other regions, will be the availability of supporting infrastructure and utilities, such as power and water (for water-based cooling, dependent on the system design), in the quantities required to not only support Data Centre development but simultaneously the significant growth across many sectors of the development industry in these locations. In the Middle East, for example, creating significant\u00a0additional\u00a0water capacity often involves the development of desalination plant capacity which, in itself, is\u00a0a complex, costly, and time-consuming process.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How do you feel that TBH\u2019s 60-year legacy (with 20-years in the Middle East) gives you a competitive advantage in delivering regional Data Centre projects of the largest scale and complexity?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cTBH has specialised in large complex projects for over 60 years, helping our clients to deliver many &#8216;first of their kind&#8217; projects\u00a0in a given\u00a0region. In the Data Centre space, we understand the requirements and processes of global leaders in the development of Data Centres, and we combine this with significant local experience delivering projects in the Middle East. One of our main focuses in the Data Centre sector currently, is supporting key global clients to navigate Middle East markets and understand localised risks, to give them the best opportunity to deliver their Data Centres, or adjacent infrastructure,\u00a0successfully.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">STUART CASSIE\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With ESG commitments becoming a defining factor in the Data Centre sector\u2019s market reputation and investment appeal, how important is it for clients that TBH embeds end-to-end sustainability and low-carbon protocols as standard practice? Do they view this as a differentiator that strengthens their own ESG positioning and brand?\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSustainability is now a defining factor in Data Centre delivery. For investors,\u00a0owners\u00a0and tenants, ESG performance is now inseparable from commercial performance. Financiers want assurance that assets can\u00a0operate\u00a0reliably for decades without becoming stranded by rising environmental expectations or water levels. Communities expect efficient use of scarce resources like power and water as well as low carbon footprints. And\u00a0hyperscalers\u00a0see ESG alignment as central to their global brand.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cWe need to look ahead. A Data Centre today may simply connect to existing utilities, but in the future power and water will not be guaranteed.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThat shift will require facilities to be conceived alongside renewable energy, new water sources, fibre connectivity working in harmony with communities, often in new locations. And to deliver this successfully, you need more than just data centre experience, but also deep knowledge and integrated thinking across energy, water,\u00a0infrastructure\u00a0and\u00a0logistics.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With\u202fRob Hammond, Director &amp; Global Data Centre\u202fLead;\u00a0Meiske\u202fSompie, Director\u00a0(Asia); Stephen Topp, Director (Middle East); and Stuart Cassie, Director (Strategic Advisory).\u00a0 This interview was the cover story for the October 2025 issue of\u00a0Middle East Consultant\u00a0 Fact. Data Centres are an indispensable element of global connectivity, yet their conception, delivery and operation bring a raft of complex issues &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":7498,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"","_yoast_wpseo_title":"","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[26,682],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7539","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","category-technology-digital"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v22.1 (Yoast SEO v27.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Driving the Data: TBH Raises the Bar on Data Centre Delivery - TBH Middle East<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"With\u202fRob Hammond, Director &amp; 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