Job Vacancy: Head of Project Development – Utility Scale

• Location: Cape Town
• Renumeration: R1 440 000 – R1 260 000
• Reports To: CEO

Our client is looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of Project Development to lead their solar project development efforts and contribute to the company’s mission of creating a greener future.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the development of utility-scale solar projects with a focus on wheeling, including site identification, land acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and financing.
• Lead a team of project developers and coordinators to drive the successful execution of solar projects, ensuring alignment with company goals, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including engineering, finance, legal, and regulatory affairs teams, to evaluate project feasibility, assess risks, and optimize project design and financing structures.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with landowners, government agencies, utilities, and other stakeholders to secure land leases, permits, interconnection agreements, and other necessary approvals for project development.
• Lead negotiations for power purchase agreements (PPAs), off-take agreements, and other contracts with utility companies, corporate buyers, or other stakeholders to secure revenue streams for wheeling solar projects.
• Stay abreast of market trends, policy developments, and regulatory changes related to wheeling and renewable energy, and provide strategic insights to inform project development decisions.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of project proposals, applications, and reports to regulatory agencies, utilities, and other relevant entities, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project development processes, optimize costs, and streamline 

Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, business administration, or related field. Master’s degree or professional certification in renewable energy or project management is preferred.
• Minimum 3 years experience in utility-scale solar project development, with a demonstrated track record of successfully leading and delivering projects in the wheeling sector.
• In-depth knowledge of wheeling regulations, policies, and market dynamics, with a strong understanding of utility-scale solar project development processes and best practices.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team of professionals to achieve common goals.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and accuracy in project planning, financial analysis, and risk assessment.
• Proficiency in project management tools, financial modeling software, and Microsoft Office suite.
• Willingness to travel as needed to project sites, meetings, and industry events.

Benefits: 

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement in a growing industry.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.