Project Development Manager

AltGen

City of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Project Development Manager

Are you a Project Developer with significant experience in solar energy? Do you have a track record of successfully navigating complex challenges in the renewable energy sector, specifically within large-scale solar projects? If so, we want you to join our client, a leading player in South Africa's renewable energy market, as a Project Development Manager.

In this role, you will be responsible for driving the development of large-scale renewable energy projects, with a strong focus on solar. You'll work closely with the Business Development team to shape and implement strategies for new and existing markets, helping the company expand its presence in the renewable energy sector.

You will manage the entire project lifecycle, from initiation to financial close, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and in line with the company's objectives. Your responsibilities will include:

1. Identifying and originating project development opportunities.
2. Managing government tender submissions.
3. Overseeing the coordination of cross-functional teams, including legal, finance, technical, and operational teams.
4. Negotiating key agreements such as Offtake Agreements, Joint Development Agreements (JDAs), and Shareholder Agreements.
5. Managing project budgets, identifying risks, and developing strategies to mitigate those risks.

With your strong background in solar energy, hands-on experience in renewable energy projects, and in-depth knowledge of the South African energy market, you'll play a key role in the company's renewable energy strategy. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the energy transition in Southern Africa and be part of a growing, dynamic industry.

Responsibilities

1. Work closely with the Business Development team to define and implement strategies for both new and existing markets.
2. Identify and originate project development and M&A opportunities, including in emerging sectors like Commercial & Industrial.
3. Lead the review of government tenders and manage the submission of responses.
4. Explore new partnership opportunities and build strong market relationships.
5. Conduct thorough market and competitor analysis to evaluate potential projects.
6. Oversee the full lifecycle of projects from initiation to financial close, collaborating with internal teams such as finance, legal, technical, and HR.
7. Manage project budgets, ensuring cost control while meeting project objectives.
8. Negotiate key agreements such as Offtake Agreements, JDAs, and Shareholder Agreements with legal and finance teams.
9. Identify project risks and develop mitigation strategies.
10. Support due diligence for M&A and project finance transactions.
11. Lead and coordinate project teams, ensuring deadlines and goals are met.
12. Prepare internal reports and investment papers for project approvals.
13. Represent the company at industry events and build valuable networks with clients and partners.

Qualifications

1. A minimum of a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
2. At least 5 years of relevant experience in the renewable energy sector.
3. Experience in project management within the energy industry is essential.
4. Strong background in the power industry and hands-on experience in renewable energy projects is crucial.
5. In-depth knowledge of the South African energy market is required.
6. Previous experience in managing utility-scale, project-financed projects through to financial close is an advantage.

Skills

1. Clear and effective communication with a focus on building relationships and negotiating successfully.
2. Confident in delivering presentations and engaging with audiences.
3. Innovative thinker with a talent for creative problem-solving.
4. Capable of making informed decisions when under pressure.
5. Committed to maintaining high standards of integrity and ethical conduct.
6. Self-driven, organized, and focused on achieving goals.
7. Well-versed in commercial matters and financial modeling.
8. Skilled in planning, organizing, and overseeing projects efficiently.
9. Proficient in negotiating and managing contracts.

Please note: Applicants without experience in renewable energy will not be considered for this role.

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Project Management and Business Development

Industries: Services for Renewable Energy