Data4, a leading European data center operator and investor, has appointed a new Investment Director. Alexander Oyaert, who previously served as a strategic advisor to the Data4 Group’s management board, will take over the position. He will be responsible for all mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities and financing.
Alexander played a key role in securing €3.3 billion in funding to support the company’s continued expansion, including €1.1 billion for new greenfield investments and acquisitions. This marks another milestone in Data4’s growth strategy, which focuses on strengthening its position in the European market and expanding into new regions, including Poland, where the company is currently expanding its data center campus in Jawczyce, near Warsaw.
Strong Financial and Industry Background
Alexander holds degrees in finance from the prestigious University of St. Gallen and in engineering from Free University of Brussels. His previous experience includes working for leading financial firms such as Morgan Stanley and Brookfield Asset Management, where he served as Vice President in the infrastructure division.
He joined Data4 in September 2023 as a strategic advisor to the management board and has since played a pivotal role in securing critical investments.
Major Expansion Plans in Poland
“We are already seeing the first results of Alexander’s work—securing such a major investment to drive our growth is an impressive achievement. The data center market is rapidly expanding across Europe, including in Poland, and the increased funding will not only allow us to expand our Jawczyce campus but also to undertake additional investments.
Market forecasts suggest that Poland’s total data center capacity could triple, exceeding 500 MW by 2030. Our estimates indicate that nearly half of this capacity will be dedicated to AI-driven services.”
– Adam Ponichtera, Managing Director of Data4 Poland
Alexander Oyaert on His New Role
“I am excited to support Data4 in continuing its success and strengthening its leadership in the European data center market. With my financial expertise, I am determined to secure further funding for expanding into new markets.
Starting with a €3.3 billion investment, we are well-positioned to continue growing in one of the fastest-developing sectors in real estate and critical infrastructure.”
– Alexander Oyaert, Investment Director at Data4
Beyond Business: A Commitment to Social Impact
Alexander’s experience extends beyond the business world. As a co-founder of a non-profit organization, he worked on improving working conditions for emergency medical responders in Belgium.
CEO’s Statement on the Appointment
“I am delighted to welcome Alexander to his new role as Investment Director, which will be crucial for Data4’s continued growth.
With his strong background in banking, Alexander will help us accelerate our expansion and develop new financing strategies.”
– Olivier Micheli, CEO of Data4 Group
Data4’s Expansion in Poland
Data4’s first Polish data center campus is located in Jawczyce, near Warsaw, on a 4-hectare site. The investment will eventually include four facilities with a total power capacity of 60 MW.
The first data center, with 8 MW of capacity, was launched in 2023 and spans over 2,200 square meters.
Market Outlook
According to a report by research firm PMR, the Polish data center market is expected to triple in capacity, exceeding 500 MW by 2030. Nearly half of this capacity is projected to support AI-driven services.
Source: CEO Magazyn
