Renewable Energy Development Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life assurance

Generous leave provisions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Development Manager to lead renewable energy projects in the Polokwane region. You will identify opportunities, drive a full development lifecycle from origination to financial close, and manage stakeholder relationships with landowners, government, and communities.

The role requires 7+ years in project development, strong financial modeling skills, and in-depth SA market knowledge. Travel across Limpopo and nationwide may be required. On-site position in Polokwane.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a proven track record of successfully bringing projects to financial close.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African renewable energy market, including policy, regulations, and procurement processes (e.g., REIPPPP).
• Strong understanding of site assessment, land acquisition, and permitting processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively in a results-driven environment.
• Experience in financial modeling and commercial structuring of projects.

Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and secure new land rights and project sites for renewable energy developments.
• Manage the full development cycle of renewable energy projects from origination through to financial close and construction.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and preliminary technical evaluations.
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring commercial viability and profitability.
• Engage with and build strong relationships with landowners, community leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders.
• Negotiate and secure necessary permits, licenses, and approvals.
• Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, legal, finance) and external consultants to advance projects.
• Prepare project documentation, investment memorandums, and presentations for internal approvals and external partners.
• Stay abreast of market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive landscape in the renewable energy sector.
• Manage relationships with key industry partners and suppliers.

Skills

Project development

Stakeholder engagement

Financial modeling

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Engineering/Env Science

Master's degree (preferred)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer of renewable energy projects, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Development Manager to spearhead new project initiatives in the Polokwane region, Limpopo . This critical role involves identifying and securing new development opportunities, managing the full project lifecycle from origination to financial close, and building strong relationships with stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the renewable energy market in South Africa, including regulatory landscapes, site assessment, and community engagement. You will be responsible for driving the company's growth pipeline, ensuring projects are commercially viable and technically sound. This is an on-site position requiring significant travel within the Limpopo province. You will be instrumental in advancing the company's mission to deliver clean energy solutions across the region. Join a forward-thinking organization that is committed to sustainable development and plays a vital role in South Africa's energy transition. We are looking for a proactive and results-oriented individual to join our team in Polokwane .

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and secure new land rights and project sites for renewable energy developments.
• Manage the full development cycle of renewable energy projects from origination through to financial close and construction.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and preliminary technical evaluations.
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring commercial viability and profitability.
• Engage with and build strong relationships with landowners, community leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders.
• Negotiate and secure necessary permits, licenses, and approvals.
• Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, legal, finance) and external consultants to advance projects.
• Prepare project documentation, investment memorandums, and presentations for internal approvals and external partners.
• Stay abreast of market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive landscape in the renewable energy sector.
• Manage relationships with key industry partners and suppliers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a proven track record of successfully bringing projects to financial close.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African renewable energy market, including policy, regulations, and procurement processes (e.g., REIPPPP).
• Strong understanding of site assessment, land acquisition, and permitting processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively in a results-driven environment.
• Experience in financial modeling and commercial structuring of projects.
• Ability to travel extensively within the Limpopo province and occasionally nationwide.
• Proficiency in project management tools and standard office software.
• Demonstrated ability to build consensus and manage diverse stakeholder interests.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a significant performance-based bonus, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, provident fund, and life assurance. This on-site role is based in Polokwane , Limpopo , offering the opportunity to be directly involved in project execution. We provide continuous learning opportunities and support for professional development. Join a company committed to making a real impact in the renewable energy sector. Benefits also include generous leave provisions and a positive work culture. Career growth opportunities within a leading renewable energy developer are abundant. This role is essential for driving our client's expansion in Polokwane .