Successfully attaining executive buy-in can make or break a project, and CEOs in particular may not be familiar with the benefits of data center energy efficiency projects. Not only do CEOs often hold the key for funding access, but their support (and enthusiasm) can also engender priority and attention of other resources (such as staff time). CEOs are driven by the opportunity to improve the financial health of the company and reduce operational spending. In some industries, there is competitive pressure to demonstrate commitment to sustainability. While CEOs have an interest in ensuring that data centers are cost effective, their foremost concern is likely that data centers meet business needs and are secure, reliable, and able to scale with organizational growth. Although CEOs are likely to be held accountable to a Board or shareholders, they may also be needed to reconcile differences between IT and Facilities (such as risk management). While a CEO’s interests and responsibilities vary across organizational type and industry, a project champion should look to identify leadership’s priorities and frame their energy efficiency project in terms that will resonate.
