Business Development Senior Associate - Early-Stage Project Development (Renewables)

Petroplan are pleased to be recruiting for a Project Development Manager based in Johannesburg on behalf of a leading independent power producer with a majority share in more than 2.2GW of power projects in operation or in construction in Africa.

The role would focus on growing the renewable energy portfolio of projects under development in Southern Africa and requires an enthusiastic, organised problem solver to take charge of managing the project development and permitting activities.

The aim is to deliver high quality projects to a construction ready phase. This can be achieved by originating entirely greenfield projects and managing development partners, safeguarding the client's interests through the development process or purchasing new partially or fully developed projects.
The candidate would assist in managing the entire project pipeline within the defined Southern African geography, establish project management processes, detailed budgets, project scheduling and trackers to successfully guide the development process in a cost efficient and pragmatic fashion.
Manage key stakeholders, and report internally on the status of developments, manage development budget requests, and internal due diligence processes.

Main responsibilities

• Assess feasibility and track all project opportunities, critically analysing their potential to meet strategic targets
• Support in preparation, submission and successful receipt of project permits including Environmental applications, civil aviation, land use, grid connection, other planning permits.
• Negotiate land lease agreements with landowners and manage resource measurement campaigns
• Manage development consultant scopes, appointments, and delivery.
• Conduct site visits, engage with relevant stakeholders across South Africa and the region.
• Prepare detailed budget build ups, tracking, expense tracking and reporting.
• Compiling and presenting projects for internal reports and co-ordinating forums for key development decisions.
• Support in developing and refining market strategies and positions with key team members.
• Manage projects through all aspects of the development life cycle from inception to financial close

Skills / Competencies

• Outstanding organisational skills and project management experience.
• Project development experience in renewable energy (wind and Solar PV).
• Knowledge of battery energy storage and experience in practically working with battery storage or similar projects.
• Required to have supported in detailed competitive tender submissions.
• Experience in budgeting and budget tracking and reporting skills.
• Negotiation experience on land agreements.
• Strong analytical, strategic and critical thinking.
• Problem solving and an individual who show initiative to take on challenges and find solutions.
• Strong English written and verbal business communication skills.
• Skilled in MS word, excel, power point and MS project required
• Outgoing and personable

Experience, Knowledge & Qualifications

• Experience in the origination of the Solar PV and Wind energy projects is critical with experience of the South African Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Program or similar recent competitive tenders required.
• A minimum undergraduate degree in Town Planning, Environmental Science, Law, or Engineering (Electrical, Civil, Mechanical), is preferred.
• A minimum 3-years work experience, with outstanding experience in energy infrastructure development (preferably renewable power) development and permitting activities.
• Additional spoken languages are beneficial, especially: Zulu, Xhosa or Portuguese.

Petroplan is the trusted, specialist global Talent Solutions partner of choice for employers and professionals in the Energy sector. Since 1976, Petroplan has been here to help people like you make the most of the opportunities available and find the best fit for you as an individual.

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In an industry where skilled and experienced professionals are increasingly sought after resource, we appreciate the true value of what you have to offer. What's more, we understand that different things are important to different people in today's world of work - it's about making exactly the right connections for you as an individual.

Our reputation for contractor and candidate care, understanding what makes you tick, and finding you the best match is second-to-none. We understand the industry inside-out and seek to understand YOU and your motivations in the same way. We take the time to evaluate your individual strengths, understand the most important things to you, and establish exactly what you're looking for from your next role.