Country Manager France / National Sales Director

Country Manager France

Paris, France

My client, a well-known company in the solar and battery storage sectors, has recently raised funds to expand throughout Europe. They are currently recruiting a Country Manager France to manage the company's expansion in the country by identifying and securing development opportunities.

Position Overview:

This leadership role is focused on spearheading the strategic expansion and operational success of a renewable energy company within a specific country. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in business development, project management, and financial oversight within the energy sector, with a strong understanding of local market dynamics and regulatory frameworks.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Define and implement the country-specific strategic roadmap.
• Prepare and oversee the execution of the 5-year medium-term plan and annual budget forecasts, aligned with broader corporate goals.
• Ensure business strategy is effectively translated into on-the-ground origination and development actions.
• Monitor market trends and regulatory changes to identify opportunities and mitigate potential risks.
• Maintain responsibility for the country P&L in line with the established business model.
• Proactively manage strategic risks, from land negotiations to complex commercial discussions.

Business Origination:

• Oversee the full lifecycle of project structuring: from negotiation to finalizing SPV agreements.
• Collaborate with corporate origination teams on bids, project acquisitions, and contract negotiations (including PPAs).
• Prepare investment documentation and internal submissions to advance project decisions.

Project Development:

• Lead the asset development lifecycle for PV, battery storage (BESS), and hybrid projects—from greenfield to commissioning.
• Create and implement tailored site development strategies based on grid access, offtake opportunities, and technical feasibility.
• Diversify project pipeline by revenue source (tenders, CPPAs, tolling, etc.) to reduce exposure.
• Monitor and optimize development costs while maximizing stakeholder engagement and project viability.
• Implement and ensure compliance with planning, risk, and cost tracking tools and processes.

Project Financing:

• Jointly manage debt and equity financing efforts with corporate investment teams.
• Build relationships with local investors and financial institutions to secure funding.
• Ensure the financial robustness and bankability of each project in coordination with relevant departments.

Deliverables Include:

• Medium-term strategic and operational plans
• Annual roadmap and budget
• Closed commercial agreements
• Pipeline dashboards and investment-ready business plans
• Engagement documentation for internal committees
• Individual objectives and performance oversight for local teams

Qualifications & Profile:

• 15+ years of professional experience, preferably in the renewable energy sector
• Strong technical expertise and presence with regulators, clients, and partners
• Proven track record in business development and complex stakeholder management
• Thorough understanding of solar PV market dynamics, development cycles, and project financials
• Experience navigating regulatory environments, including local content and tax considerations
• Fluent in English
• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments
• Effective communicator and team motivator with a proactive and transparent working style