Country Director - Timor Leste

Job Description

Job Specification: Country Director (Renewable Energy Project)
Location: Timor Leste - Office/site based

Project Overview:

We are supporting a large-scale renewable energy project in Timor Oriental, involving the construction of a 100 MW solar power plant and 40 MW of battery storage. The project is set to sign the PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) in two months, with the project closing scheduled by the end of the year. A Chinese EPC contractor will oversee the construction, with operations planned to span the next 25 years. We are looking to appoint a Country Director to lead the project and develop a team for successful execution. Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership:
  Lead and oversee all aspects of the renewable energy project in Timor Oriental, including 10-15 local and international team members. Directly manage the construction phase, project delivery, and subsequent operations.
• Team Building:
  Establish and grow a high-performing local team to manage construction and operational activities. Mentor and guide the team to meet project milestones.
• Stakeholder Relations:
  Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including international shareholders, local government representatives, contractors, and suppliers.
• Construction and Operations Management:
  Ensure smooth project execution, from contract finalization to plant commissioning. Oversee project risks, timelines, and resource allocation to guarantee that all milestones are met.
• Cultural Adaptability:
  Adapt to and manage the complexities of working in a developing country, navigating local challenges, and ensuring effective collaboration with local communities.

Key Requirements:

• Experience:
  • Proven experience managing large-scale solar or battery storage projects, ideally in developing or emerging markets.
  • Strong background in EPC management, with a focus on large infrastructure projects.
  • Experience in managing international teams, especially in regions with less-developed infrastructure.
• Technical Expertise:
  • In-depth knowledge of solar energy systems and battery storage technologies.
  • Strong project management capabilities, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Language:
  • Proficiency in Portuguese and English. Additional fluency in French or Japanese is a plus.
• Cultural Competency:
  • Experience in leading projects in developing countries and cross-cultural settings. Comfort with remote locations and challenging environments.
• Leadership Skills:
  • Strong ability to lead, inspire, and manage a diverse team. Experience building teams and ensuring effective communication across international and local stakeholders.

Additional Information:

• Location: The project is located in Timor Oriental, a developing country with both challenges and opportunities. Candidates should be comfortable working in a challenging environment but with significant potential for impact.
• Compensation: Competitive salary package
• Project Timeline:
  • PPA Signature: Within 2 months.
  • Project Closing: Targeted for end of the year.
  • Construction: Beginning early 2026, with completion by mid-2027.
  • Operations: The plant is expected to operate for 25 years.

About Petroplan

Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual.

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In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual.

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