Senior Business Development Manager – Renewable energy

Climate17; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in renewable energy is seeking a Senior Business Development Manager to drive commercial solar growth in the UK. The candidate should have over 10 years of experience in business development and a strong track record in closing high-value deals within the C&I sector. This position offers a hybrid working environment and requires a proactive approach to relationship building and market analysis.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in business development or sales in high value sales sectors.
• Strong track record of closing seven-figure deals.
• Experience in C&I Solar or renewable energy preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the origination and closing of commercial solar PPA opportunities.
• Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of multi-MW C&I solar projects.
• Prepare financially modelled proposals articulating clear ROI.

Skills

Business development

Sales management

Negotiation skills

Financial modeling

CRM proficiency

Analytical problem-solving

Tools

HubSpot CRM

MS Office Suite

Job description

Role

Climate17 are working with a fast-growing and well-backed renewable energy business that specialise in funding, developing and operating behind the meter solar, commercial PV projects.

They actively require a skilled and experienced Senior Business Development Manager to accelerate their commercial solar growth through the origination, development, and conversion of high-value opportunities within the C&I sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead the origination and closing of commercial solar PPA opportunities across the UK.
• Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of multi-MW C&I solar projects, from lead generation through to contract signature.
• Prepare and deliver financially modelled proposals and investment-grade business cases, articulating clear ROI and value to clients.
• Employ a data-driven approach to prospecting, leveraging CRM insights, market intelligence, and channel partner collaboration.
• Drive the negotiation and execution of high value, long term contracts, balancing commercial value and client satisfaction.
• Build and sustain relationships with corporate energy buyers, developers and consultants

• Identify & nurture strategic partnerships and referral networks to enhance market reach.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and policy developments impacting the C&I solar sector and provide actionable insights to senior leadership.
• Work closely with technical, finance, and project delivery teams to ensure a seamless transition from opportunity to contract execution.

• Oversee the accuracy of client documentation, financial models, and contractual frameworks.
• Support the mentorship and development of junior team members, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Use HubSpot CRM to manage the complete sales lifecycle, ensuring timely follow-ups, transparent pipeline reporting, and accurate forecasting.

Requirements

• Minimum 10 years of experience in business development, sales, or account management within C&I construction, energy, infrastructure or other high value sales sectors.
• Proven track record of closing seven-figure, multi-stakeholder deals.
• Strong financial acumen, able to structure, model, and articulate commercial proposals with ROI, payback, and risk considerations.
• Experience in C&I Solar or renewable energy preferred, with ability to quickly understand technical and regulatory contexts.
• Demonstrated ability to operate at board level, managing complex negotiations
• Advanced CRM proficiency (HubSpot preferred) and strong command of MS Office suite
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strategic and analytical approach to problem-solving.

Location

Exeter - hybrid working travel

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.

We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability.

If you require additional support, equipment or resources in order to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.