Role Overview for VP of Grid Modernization & Energy Storage – Houston, TX
JRG Partners is proud to represent a pioneering force in the energy sector, a company dedicated to architecting the future of power generation and distribution. Our client is at the forefront of the global energy transition, developing and deploying cutting-edge solutions that enhance grid reliability, integrate renewable resources, and create a more sustainable energy ecosystem. We are seeking a transformative, results-oriented executive to join their leadership team as the Vice President of Grid Modernization & Energy Storage, based in the energy capital of the world, Houston, TX.
This is a career-defining opportunity for a strategic leader with a profound understanding of the power grid and a passion for innovation. The VP will be the central figure in defining and executing the company’s ambitious strategy in the rapidly evolving energy storage and grid services landscape. You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of utility-scale energy storage projects, from market analysis and origination to commercial operation. This role demands a unique blend of technical expertise, financial acumen, strategic vision, and inspirational leadership.
As the VP, you will not only manage a portfolio of complex projects but also build and mentor a world-class team of engineers, project managers, and energy market specialists. You will be the company’s chief advocate and expert in this domain, engaging with regulators, utility partners, technology vendors, and key industry stakeholders to drive progress and unlock new market opportunities. Your leadership will directly contribute to the company’s growth, profitability, and its mission to accelerate the adoption of clean energy. If you are driven to solve some of the most critical challenges facing our energy infrastructure and want to leave a lasting impact, we invite you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Grid Modernization & Energy Storage – Houston, TX
The Vice President will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, overseeing all strategic and operational aspects of the Grid Modernization and Energy Storage division. Success in this role will be measured by the successful development and deployment of projects, the financial performance of the division, and the strategic expansion of the company’s market footprint.
Strategic Vision & Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term business strategy for the company’s grid modernization and energy storage initiatives. This includes identifying key market trends, competitive threats, and technological advancements to ensure the company maintains a leadership position.
Project Portfolio Management
Oversee the end-to-end development lifecycle of a multi-gigawatt pipeline of energy storage projects. This includes site selection, feasibility analysis, permitting, interconnection, engineering design, procurement, and construction management, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Financial & Commercial Oversight
Lead all commercial activities, including power purchase agreement (PPA) negotiations, offtake structuring, and project financing. Develop sophisticated financial models to assess project viability, manage divisional P&L, and present investment cases to the executive board and external investors.
Technology & Innovation Strategy
Champion a culture of innovation by staying at the forefront of energy storage technologies (BESS, long-duration storage), software platforms (DERMS, VPPs), and advanced grid solutions. Evaluate and select technology partners and vendors to optimize project performance and cost-effectiveness.
Regulatory & Market Engagement
Serve as the company’s senior expert on energy markets, with a particular focus on ERCOT. This role requires a leader adept at navigating complex regulatory environments at the federal, state, and local levels. Actively participate in regulatory proceedings and advocate for policies that support energy storage and grid modernization.
Stakeholder Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including utilities, Independent System Operators (ISOs), regulators, government agencies, EPC contractors, and local communities. Represent the company at industry conferences and events.
Team Development & Mentorship
Recruit, build, and lead a high-performing, multidisciplinary team. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and results-driven culture. Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to team members, empowering them to achieve their full potential.
Risk Assessment & Mitigation
Proactively identify and develop mitigation strategies for potential risks across the project portfolio, including technical, financial, regulatory, and operational risks. Implement robust project management processes and controls to ensure predictable outcomes.
Business Development
Drive the expansion of the business by identifying and pursuing new market opportunities, strategic partnerships, and potential M&A targets that align with the company’s long-term vision.
Requirements for the VP of Grid Modernization & Energy Storage – Houston, TX
The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of success in the energy sector. You possess a deep technical and commercial understanding of the power grid and have demonstrated experience leading large-scale, complex energy infrastructure projects from conception to completion.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or related field), Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related discipline is required. An MBA or other advanced degree (MS, PhD) is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience within the utility, renewable energy, or power development sectors. At least 7 years of this experience must be in a senior leadership capacity (Director, VP, or equivalent) with direct P&L responsibility.
Domain Expertise
Demonstrable, in-depth expertise in grid-scale energy storage, particularly Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Comprehensive knowledge of grid modernization technologies, renewable energy integration, power systems engineering, and electricity market design is essential.
Market Knowledge
Extensive experience working within deregulated North American electricity markets is required. Deep familiarity with the ERCOT market, including its protocols, interconnection processes, and ancillary services, is a significant advantage.
Project Development Track Record
A proven history of successfully developing, financing, and constructing utility-scale energy projects. Experience managing multi-million-dollar budgets and negotiating complex commercial contracts is mandatory.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a track record of building, inspiring, and managing high-performance teams. Must be a strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans and drive execution.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superior verbal and written communication skills. The ability to present complex technical and financial information clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences, including C-suite executives, board members, investors, and regulatory bodies.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of project finance, financial modeling, risk analysis, and budgeting. Experience in securing project financing through various structures is highly desirable.
Location
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the greater Houston, TX area. Regular travel will be required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. They foster a dynamic and rewarding work environment where you can make a tangible impact.
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus and a long-term incentive plan (equity/LTIP).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan featuring a generous company match to help you build your financial future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to your professional development, with support for continuing education, industry certifications, and attendance at key conferences.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation assistance package is available for the successful candidate and their family, if required.
Impactful Work
The unparalleled opportunity to be at the helm of a critical business unit, shaping the future of the energy grid and contributing directly to a more sustainable planet.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal leadership role. If you are a visionary leader with the experience and passion to drive the future of grid modernization and energy storage, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and strategic vision. Interested candidates can learn more about our focus in this sector and begin the application process by visiting our Energy & Utilities Executive Search Firm Practice Area page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce.
