HEAD of O&M and ASSET MANAGEMENT (Renewables)

HEAD OF O&M AND ASSET MANAGEMENT (Renewables)

Our client is a nationwide multi-utility group operating across the Energy and Environmental sectors, comprising over 15 operational subsidiaries, with two main offices in northern Italy, 1,700 employees and nearly €2 billion in annual revenue.

The Group’s activities span the entire energy and environmental value chain, including power and gas production and distribution, cogeneration, district heating, integrated water services, waste management, public lighting, and internet connectivity. In addition, the Group actively promotes energy efficiency and electric mobility solutions.

Currently, the Group is experiencing significant growth, driven by both organic expansion and potential external acquisitions. To support this journey, it is also undergoing a transformation programme aimed at evolving from a centralized, vertical structure to a more synergistic, business-oriented model, positioning itself as a leading player in the development of sustainable, future‑ready energy solutions.

Position – The role:

As part of this transformation, the Group is implementing a structured program to simplify and rationalize its Renewable Energy business. This will enable a shift towards a more integrated, process‑driven operating model, in order to support portfolio expansion, manage increasingly complex projects and deliver the development goals outlined in the Group’s industrial plan.

Within this context, the new Head of O&M and Asset Management will be responsible for the technical, operational and financial management of operating plants. The role's primary goal will be to maximise asset availability, efficiency and profitability, while ensuring compliance with contracts, regulations and environmental requirements. They will also oversee O&M providers, monitor performance and manage technical and financial reporting to management and investors. The Head of O&M and AM will report directly to the CEO of the Renewable business.

Position – Specific responsibilities:

O&M – Operational and Technical Management

• Ensure the operational management of operational assets (wind, solar PV and storage), maintaining high standards of availability, reliability and safety.
• Coordinate and supervise O&M contracts, monitoring supplier performance against technical KPIs and contractual SLAs.
• Monitor plant performance in real time through the appropriate digital platforms.
• Manage corrective and preventive maintenance activities, including repairs, inspections, and restoration time monitoring (MTTR).
• Supervise extraordinary maintenance campaigns, retrofitting, revamping and technological upgrades.

Asset Management

• Manage asset profitability and value creation through the analysis of energy performance and operational KPIs.
• Plan and control operating budgets (OPEX), identifying cost optimization opportunities.
• Manage the contractual framework, including insurance policies, PPAs, grid connection agreements, service contracts and warranties.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, environmental and permitting requirements during operations, coordinating with Corporate functions and external authorities.
• Maintain and update regulatory registers, certifications and mandatory documentation with relevant institutions.

HSE and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and waste management regulations, in coordination with corporate HSE functions; coordinate HSE activities with O&M contractors, including site audits and inspections.
• Manage incidents, non-compliances and mandatory reporting to competent authorities.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Analyse performance deviations and conduct root cause analysis to define corrective and preventive actions.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly technical and financial reports for the Top Management and Investors.
• Develop and manage centralized KPI dashboards and business intelligence tools for portfolio monitoring and decision support.

Requirements:

• Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or Industrial) or related fields; a postgraduate degree or master’s in project management, Energy or Construction Management would represent a plus, as well as an MBA.
• At least 10+ years of experience from Renewable, Utilities, EPC or Asset Management sectors with solid experience in Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of renewable assets.
• In-depth knowledge of PMO processes, with consistent track record in coordinating contractors, suppliers, and subcontractors; strong experience in budget management, cost control, and executive reporting.
• Strong knowledge of asset performance evaluation and monitoring, including KPIs definition and monitoring, digital supervision platforms, and maintenance management systems.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance and permitting.
• Ability to assess technical, economic, and operational risks, with solid understanding of HSE, environmental, and regulatory compliance requirement.
• Used to interact effectively with regulatory authorities, industrial partners, and financial stakeholders.
• A result-oriented leadership demonstrating hands‑on experience and sense of urgency, together with business sense and drive for results. Capable of taking decisions in structured environments delivering results on time, within budget, and meeting performance targets. Excellent problem‑solving capabilities.
• Strong communication and influencing skills: Capable of managing multidisciplinary teams and large contractors, with the ability to bring all stakeholders involved together, build trust and persuade in decision‑making processes, and to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely. Strong communication and reporting skills also at executive level.
• Strong awareness and alignment to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion topics.
• Fluency in English.
• Location in Northern Italy.

ONLY CANDIDATES WHO MEET ALL THE REQUIREMENTS SHARED WITH THE CLIENT WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR FURTHER CONTACT

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• General Business, Management, and Project Management

Industries

• Energy Technology, Services for Renewable Energy, and Utilities