Role Overview for CEO – Utility-Scale Solar Developer
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a transformative Chief Executive Officer for a dynamic, well-capitalized, and rapidly growing utility-scale solar developer. Our client is a market leader backed by a premier infrastructure private equity fund, possessing a multi-gigawatt pipeline of solar and storage projects across key markets in the United States. This is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary leader to take the helm of a high-growth platform and make a substantial impact on the global transition to clean energy.
As CEO, you will be the driving force behind the company’s strategic direction, operational excellence, and financial success. You will be responsible for scaling the organization, expanding its project portfolio, and solidifying its position as a top-tier developer in the renewable energy landscape. This role demands a unique blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, operational expertise, and inspirational leadership. You will be tasked with navigating the complexities of the energy market, fostering key relationships with stakeholders, and building a world-class team dedicated to a sustainable future. The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive from the renewable energy sector with a proven track record of creating significant enterprise value.
Key Responsibilities of CEO – Utility-Scale Solar Developer
The Chief Executive Officer will have ultimate responsibility for all aspects of the company’s performance. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Vision & Execution
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term strategic plan that drives profitable growth and market leadership. Identify and capitalize on emerging market trends, new technologies (such as green hydrogen and long-duration storage), and geographic expansion opportunities. Translate the company’s vision into actionable goals and ensure rigorous execution across all departments.
Financial Stewardship & Capital Allocation
Assume full P&L responsibility, driving financial performance and ensuring the company’s long-term fiscal health. Lead capital raising activities, including project finance (tax equity, debt) and corporate-level funding. Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and reporting. Maintain a strong relationship with the Board of Directors and private equity sponsors, ensuring alignment on capital allocation and strategic initiatives.
Operational Leadership & Project Delivery
Provide executive oversight for the entire project lifecycle, from greenfield origination and site control to permitting, interconnection, engineering, procurement, construction (EPC), and long-term asset management. Foster a culture of operational excellence, emphasizing safety, quality, on-time delivery, and budget adherence. Implement scalable processes and systems to support rapid growth.
Commercial Growth & Business Development
Lead the company’s commercial strategy, including the origination and negotiation of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with utilities, corporations, and other offtakers. Spearhead business development efforts, forge strategic partnerships, and evaluate M&A opportunities to accelerate growth and enhance the project pipeline.
Executive Leadership & Corporate Culture
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing senior executive team. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented corporate culture that attracts, retains, and develops top-tier talent. Champion the company’s mission and values, and promote a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Stakeholder Management & Industry Influence
Serve as the primary spokesperson and public face of the company. Cultivate and manage critical relationships with investors, board members, lenders, regulatory agencies, community leaders, and industry partners. Represent the company at conferences and in policy discussions, positioning it as a thought leader in the renewable energy sector.
Risk Management & Governance
Establish and oversee a robust risk management framework to identify and mitigate potential business, financial, operational, and regulatory risks. Ensure the company operates with the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and corporate governance.
Requirements for the CEO – Utility-Scale Solar Developer
The successful candidate will be a proven leader with deep industry expertise and a passion for renewable energy. The following qualifications are required:
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience within the energy sector, with at least 10 years directly focused on utility-scale solar development. A proven track record of success in a CEO, President, or General Manager role with full P&L responsibility for a significant development platform or organization.
Financial Acumen
Extensive experience in complex financial management, including project finance, M&A, and raising substantial amounts of capital (both debt and equity). Deep familiarity with tax equity structures is essential. Prior experience working effectively with private equity sponsors and managing board-level relationships is critical.
Technical & Market Expertise
Comprehensive understanding of the entire solar project development lifecycle, including siting, permitting, interconnection, PPA structuring, and EPC management. Expert knowledge of U.S. power markets (e.g., ERCOT, PJM, CAISO, MISO), RTO/ISO protocols, and the evolving regulatory and policy landscape.
Leadership Qualities
A visionary and strategic leader known for inspiring and motivating teams to achieve ambitious goals. Must possess exceptional communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills. A decisive, results-driven executive who can operate effectively in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
Strategic Mindset
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful long-term business strategies. The capacity to analyze complex situations, anticipate future market shifts, and make sound, data-driven decisions that create sustainable value.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree is highly preferred.
Benefits & Perks Offered
This position offers a compelling and highly competitive executive compensation package designed to attract a top-tier leader. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and an attractive annual performance-based bonus.
- A significant equity stake in the company, providing a substantial long-term wealth creation opportunity tied to the company’s success.
- A comprehensive benefits package, including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Relocation assistance for the right candidate, if required.
- The unparalleled opportunity to lead a key player in the clean energy transition, building a lasting legacy in one of the most important industries of our time.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive search firm for this confidential, high-priority engagement. We are seeking a transformative leader ready to power the future of clean energy. If your experience and ambitions align with this unique opportunity, we encourage you to submit your application for consideration. To learn more about our dedicated expertise in this sector, please visit our Renewable Energy Executive Search practice and contact us through the appropriate channels. JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive leadership landscape. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
