Project Manager (Renewable Energy)

Project Manager

LOCATION: Durham

ROLE OVERVIEW: My client is seeking a Project Manager to lead, manage, and inspire multidisciplinary teams—both internal and external—within a structured project management framework. The role is central to delivering successful projects that drive the growth of a thriving renewables development firm. The Project Manager will be responsible for advancing complex projects through their development lifecycle while maintaining a proactive approach to risk management. This position demands the development and execution of project strategies with a strong emphasis on cost control and adherence to health and safety standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Lead, manage, and motivate project teams to achieve successful outcomes that align with business targets and growth objectives.
2. Manage projects in accordance with the established Project Management Framework (PMF).
3. Coordinate and develop comprehensive strategies that balance commercial risk, planning success, and project deliverability.
4. Propose and implement robust risk management strategies throughout the entire project lifecycle.
5. Develop and maintain accurate core project documentation, including Financial Appraisals, Programmes, Cashflow, Budget, Health and Safety Information, and Risk/Opportunity Registers.
6. Drive efficiency improvements and cost reductions in line with strategic project goals.
7. Successfully deliver projects from inception and site identification through to engineering design, planning consents, due diligence, financial close, and construction.
8. Collaborate closely with the senior management team to implement portfolio strategies.
9. Support the skills development of the broader project management team in collaboration with the Projects Director.
10. Build and maintain key external relationships with project decision-makers, including statutory bodies, politicians, landowners, and host communities, with support from Estates, Community Managers, and Planners.

ACCOUNTABILITIES: As the Project Manager, you will be fundamentally responsible and accountable to the business for all aspects of the project, including:

1. Health and Safety Management
2. Commercial viability
3. Budgetary control and procurement
4. Financial assessment and appraisals
5. Risk and opportunity management
6. Compliance with the agreed PMF
7. Ensuring projects progress with the requisite authority levels and managing business expectations
8. Quality assurance and adherence to project standards
9. Providing project assurance to the board
10. Sponsor management
11. Programme and resource management
12. Conflict resolution
13. Project administration

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE:

Essential:

1. Degree or equivalent qualifications
2. Minimum of 3 years of project management experience in commercial-scale renewable energy or property development projects
3. Basic understanding of project management principles (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, RICS)
4. Strong grasp of valuation methods, budgeting, and accounting principles
5. Proven leadership and people management skills
6. Knowledge of health and safety legislation or related qualification
7. Experience in coordinating multidisciplinary teams
8. Broad understanding of renewable energy technologies
9. Detailed understanding of risk management principles
10. Proven track record in strategy development and project delivery
11. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
12. Understanding of the UK planning system

Desirable:

1. Degree in environmental studies, renewable energy, property, engineering, or a related science
2. Professional qualification (RICS, IEMA, APM, or similar)
3. In-depth knowledge of the town and country planning process
4. Experience with site identification, financing, due diligence, construction, and delivery
5. Experience in tendering, negotiating, and implementing key contracts
6. Understanding of the UK political system, with existing political relationships preferred

PERSONAL QUALITIES/COMPETENCIES:

1. Commercially minded with strong interpersonal skills
2. Comfortable working with senior management
3. High level of self-awareness and personal resilience
4. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and make sound decisions
5. Self-starter with strong negotiation, influencing, and motivational skills
6. Strategic thinker who can manage day-to-day details
7. Independent thinker capable of challenging current practices
8. Attentive to detail with a strong commitment to integrity and honesty
9. Proven ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders
10. Excellent verbal and written communication skills
11. Team player with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
12. Positive and enthusiastic attitude toward overcoming technical challenges
13. Resilient and perseverant on long-term projects
14. Willingness to travel regularly, including site visits and overnight stays.