Commercial Director Renewable Energy

Rise Technical Recruitment Limited; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A renewable energy social enterprise in Oxford is seeking a Commercial Director to lead solar farm acquisitions. This role involves ownership of the acquisition process, strategic decision-making as a Board member, and a focus on community-led environmental impact. Ideal candidates will have a proven history of closing commercial deals and strong negotiation skills. A unique opportunity for those who want to contribute to the UK's transition to net-zero.

Benefits

Company Vehicle

Pension

25 Days Holiday

Bank Holidays

Flexi-Time

Cycle to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Proven track record of closing commercial deals.
• Commercially and financially strong.
• Empathetic, collaborative, and aligned with a community-focused mission.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full lifecycle of solar farm acquisitions.
• Evaluate commercial, financial, and technical aspects of projects.
• Negotiate terms and close deals efficiently.
• Contribute to strategic decisions as a Board member.

Skills

Proven track record of closing commercial deals end-to-end

Strong financial and negotiation skills

Empathy and collaboration

Ability to operate at Board level

Proactive and hands-on approach

Job description

Commercial Director - Renewable Energy (Social Enterprise)

Oxford (Hybrid working - 3 days a week in the office)

£75,000 + Company Vehicle + 36 hours a week + Pension + 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Flexi-Time + Cycle to Work Scheme

Do you have a proven track record of closing commercial deals and want to step into a leadership role that directly impacts the UK's transition to net zero?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast‑growing renewable energy social enterprise on a mission to make Oxfordshire the first net‑zero county in the UK, while expanding their footprint nationally. They are looking for a Commercial Director to lead the acquisition of solar farms, sitting on our Board and playing a pivotal role in shaping a cleaner energy future.

As Commercial Director, you will take full ownership of sourcing, evaluating, negotiating, and closing solar farm acquisitions (typically 5-15 MW). You'll work closely with the CEO, senior leadership team, and technical experts to drive our next phase of growth and help us scale from 30MW to 90MW within five years.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a purpose‑led, community‑focused organisation, enjoys working in a small and agile team, and wants to make a lasting impact. You don't need to come from the solar industry but you must be a proven commercial deal closer with strong financial and negotiation skills.

If you're looking for a Commercial Director role where the impact goes beyond financials and contributes to real environmental change, this is a rare and exciting opportunity.

The Role:

• Lead the full lifecycle of solar farm acquisitions from identification to deal completion.
• Evaluate commercial, financial, and technical aspects of potential projects.
• Develop a strong pipeline of investable renewable energy projects.
• Negotiate terms, work with legal teams, and close deals efficiently.
• Sitting on the Board as Commercial Director, contribute to strategic decisions and organisational direction.
• Work closely with the CEO, BD Manager, and external consultants to deliver the growth plan.
• Support handover into Operations to ensure successful project delivery.
• Help drive the organisation towards its target of 90MW installed capacity within 5 years.

The Person:

• Proven track record of closing commercial deals end-to-end - essential.
• Commercially and financially strong, with experience valuing assets or investments.
• Empathetic, collaborative, and aligned with the mission of community‑focused renewable energy.
• Robust and confident - comfortable operating at Board level.
• Hands‑on, proactive, and able to work in a small, fast‑moving social enterprise.
• Renewable energy or solar PV experience - desirable but not essential.