Role Overview for VP of Project Development – Renewable Energy
The Vice President of Project Development is a critical leadership role responsible for the strategic oversight and execution of all project development activities for our client’s portfolio. Reporting directly to the Chief Development Officer, you will lead a multi-disciplinary team in identifying, evaluating, and advancing a pipeline of utility-scale solar, wind, and battery energy storage system (BESS) projects. Your primary objective will be to successfully convert greenfield and early-stage opportunities into financeable, construction-ready assets. This role demands a deep understanding of the renewable energy industry, exceptional leadership skills, and a comprehensive knowledge of all facets of project development, including site acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and commercial structuring. You will be instrumental in setting the strategic direction for market entry, technology selection, and portfolio growth, ensuring the company maintains its competitive edge and achieves its long-term objectives.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Project Development – Renewable Energy
The VP of Project Development will have a broad range of responsibilities, encompassing strategic planning, team leadership, and hands-on project execution. Your success will be measured by your ability to build and advance a profitable and sustainable project pipeline.
Strategic Leadership & Pipeline Management
Develop and implement the company’s project development strategy in alignment with corporate goals. Oversee the entire project pipeline from origination through to the start of construction, ensuring projects meet key milestones, budget, and schedule targets.
Market Analysis & Project Origination
Lead efforts to identify and assess new market opportunities, conducting thorough due diligence on policy, regulatory landscapes, and market fundamentals. Drive greenfield development activities and evaluate project acquisition opportunities to fuel pipeline growth.
Site Acquisition and Land Management
Direct the land acquisition team in identifying suitable project sites and negotiating complex lease agreements, purchase options, and easements with landowners. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with landowners and community stakeholders.
Permitting and Environmental Compliance
Provide executive oversight for all permitting efforts, including local, state, and federal approvals. Ensure all projects comply with environmental regulations (e.g., NEPA) and manage the engagement of external consultants and legal counsel to successfully navigate the permitting process.
Grid Interconnection Strategy
Lead the interconnection team in managing the complex process of securing grid connection for all projects. This includes submitting interconnection applications, managing queue positions, negotiating interconnection agreements with utilities and ISOs/RTOs, and analyzing transmission constraints.
Commercial Structuring & PPA Negotiation
Collaborate with the origination and finance teams to develop offtake strategies and support the negotiation of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with utilities, corporations, and other counterparties. Ensure project economics are robust and meet investment criteria.
Financial Oversight and Project Economics
Develop and manage project development budgets. Oversee the creation and maintenance of sophisticated financial models to assess project viability, optimize returns, and support project financing and M&A activities.
Team Building & Mentorship
Recruit, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of project developers, managers, and specialists. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, providing guidance and professional development opportunities for your team members.
Stakeholder Relations
Serve as a senior representative of the company in interactions with key external stakeholders, including government officials, regulatory agencies, utilities, community leaders, and industry partners.
Requirements for the VP of Project Development – Renewable Energy
We are seeking a candidate with extensive experience and a demonstrable history of success in renewable energy project development. The following qualifications are essential for this executive role:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, Environmental Science, or a related field is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in the energy sector, with at least 10 years focused specifically on renewable energy project development (solar, wind, or storage).
Leadership Experience
At least 5-7 years of experience in a senior leadership role, with a proven track record of managing and developing high-performing teams.
Development Track Record
Demonstrable success in leading the development of multiple utility-scale renewable energy projects from greenfield stage through to commercial operation (COD).
Technical Expertise
Deep, comprehensive knowledge of the entire project development lifecycle, including real estate, permitting, environmental review, interconnection, and PPA structuring.
Market Knowledge
In-depth understanding of U.S. power markets, including ISO/RTO protocols, energy policy, and regulatory frameworks. Experience across multiple markets (e.g., PJM, MISO, ERCOT, CAISO) is highly desirable.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial modeling skills and a thorough understanding of project finance principles and valuation methodologies.
Negotiation Skills
Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, with experience leading complex contract negotiations (e.g., land agreements, PPAs, Interconnection Agreements).
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends, and position the company for long-term success. Must be a proactive problem-solver capable of navigating ambiguity and making sound decisions under pressure.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, along with a supportive and rewarding work environment. You can expect:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and an attractive annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Meaningful participation in a long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, phantom stock) that aligns your success with the company’s growth.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you save for the future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to paid company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for professional development, including conferences, training, and certifications to support your career growth.
Work-Life Balance
A commitment to work-life balance, with a hybrid work model offering flexibility.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to play a pivotal role in a company that is making a tangible, positive impact on the environment and the future of energy.
How to Apply
If you are a passionate and driven leader with the experience to guide a world-class project development team, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. JRG Partners is managing this exclusive search on behalf of our client.
To be considered, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments. Our team of specialized recruiters will review your application and contact qualified candidates for a confidential discussion. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Renewable Energy & Clean Technology Executive Search page. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how you can contribute to our client’s success in building a cleaner energy future.
