Senior Project Development Manager

Job Description

Job Specification: Senior Project Development Manager (UK)

Location: UK

About the Company:

Petroplan is pleased to support our client, a fast-growing renewable energy company, in their search for a Senior Project Development Manager in the UK. Our client is dedicated to developing large-scale solar PV, onshore wind, BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems), and green hydrogen projects across key markets. Their goal is to deliver 4GW of ready-to-build projects over the next five years and contribute meaningfully to the global energy transition.

Job Overview:

The Senior Project Development Manager will play a crucial role in growing the company's UK development pipeline, with a focus on utility-scale Solar PV, Wind, and BESS projects. This role will manage projects from post-origination to Ready-to-Build (RtB) status, and support financial closing. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading multi-disciplinary project teams, coordinating with stakeholders such as regulators, landowners, and consultants, and ensuring the timely delivery of projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• 
  Project Management:
  • Lead and manage renewable energy development projects from concept through all development phases.
  • Secure all necessary consents, ensuring projects are deliverable with competitive Levelized Costs of Energy (LCOEs).
  • Manage multi-disciplinary teams and external consultants throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Oversee the project's Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) strategy and management of EIA studies and surveys.
• 
  Stakeholder Management:
  • Communicate effectively with regulators, local communities, landowners, and other key stakeholders.
  • Negotiate and finalize commercial agreements, including leading discussions with solicitors and land agents to conclude option and lease agreements.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for landowners and communities, providing information about projects as needed.
• 
  Financial and Budgetary Oversight:
  • Prepare and present investment papers for project approvals.
  • Manage project budgets and forecast accurately, ensuring the Senior Developer, Head of Development, CEO, and Finance Director have timely information to assess project risks and opportunities.
  • Ensure all critical project risks, particularly health, safety, and environmental risks, are managed effectively.
• 
  Strategic Development:
  • Research grid status and availability and liaise with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) as needed.
  • Advise senior management on the impact of technical and specialist risks, offering solutions and recommendations.
  • Present recommendations to senior leadership, including the Head of Development, CEO, and Board, ensuring all decisions are well-documented with thorough due diligence.

Qualifications and Experience:

• 
  Education:
  • Degree in Environmental Management, Planning, Environmental Engineering, Land Management/Surveying, or a related field. Equivalent experience in obtaining development consents will also be considered.
• 
  Experience:
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience in early-stage solar project development in the UK.
  • Experience with wind projects is advantageous but not essential.
  • Proven track record in renewable energy project development, preferably at utility scale.
  • Deep understanding of UK planning systems, consenting regimes, and land agreements for renewable energy projects.
• 
  Skills and Knowledge:
  • Strong project management skills, including budget management and stakeholder engagement.
  • Familiarity with health and safety protocols in renewable energy project development.
  • Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
  • Strong report writing and presentation skills, with the ability to deliver under pressure and within deadlines.
  • A tenacious, persistent attitude toward achieving success.

Additional Requirements:

• A commitment to the client's mission and working principles.
• Willingness to travel and engage with stakeholders across project locations.

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.

Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines.

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.

Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.

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.

Over 10,000 placements in more than 55 countries for over 550 clients across 65 disciplines.

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.

Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.