Development Manager - Renewable Energy

Climate17; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A renewable energy recruitment firm in the UK is seeking a Development Manager to lead projects from land acquisition to delivery. The role involves sourcing land opportunities, negotiating key agreements, and managing planning applications. The ideal candidate has MRICS qualifications or equivalent experience and a background in renewable energy development. This position offers a hybrid working pattern and genuine opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Progression and professional development opportunities

Supportive, forward-thinking culture

Qualifications

• Experience in BESS or solar development preferred.
• Exposure to M&A or project sales is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Source and secure new land opportunities.
• Negotiate Heads of Terms, leases, and option agreements.
• Manage planning applications and grid connections.
• Coordinate consultants, advisors, and stakeholders.
• Support project transactions and commercial appraisals.

Skills

MRICS-qualified (or equivalent experience)

Background in land or renewable energy project development

Skilled negotiator with strong commercial acumen

Confident managing planning and grid processes

Proficient with GIS / land appraisal tools

Tools

LandInsight

Job description

The Opportunity

As the business continues to expand, they’re looking for a Development Manager to join their growing team. Reporting to the Commercial Director, you’ll take ownership of projects from land acquisition through to planning, grid connection, and delivery. This role offers autonomy, variety, and clear progression within a dynamic, entrepreneurial company that values expertise and initiative. The role is based in West Suffolk with a hybrid working pattern.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and secure new land opportunities.
• Negotiate Heads of Terms, leases, and option agreements.
• Manage planning applications and grid connections.
• Coordinate consultants, advisors, and stakeholders.
• Support project transactions and commercial appraisals.

About You

• MRICS-qualified (or equivalent experience).
• Background in land or renewable energy project development.
• Skilled negotiator with strong commercial acumen.
• Confident managing planning and grid processes.
• Proficient with GIS / land appraisal tools (e.g. LandInsight).

Desirable: Experience in BESS or solar development, and exposure to M&A or project sales.

Why Join?

• Be part of a business accelerating the UK’s clean energy future.
• Work across the full project lifecycle with an experienced leadership team.
• Genuine progression and professional development opportunities.
• Supportive, forward-thinking culture with real impact.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose-led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We believe there is no solution to climate change without people. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world.