Head of Community Solar – Renewable Power Developer

The Company: Community Scale and Utility-Scale Solar & Storage Project Developer

Our client is a leading solar and energy storage developer in the U.S., focused on driving the transition to clean energy. They specialize in developing and financing utility-scale and community-scale solar projects that deliver clean energy to businesses, communities, and utilities. With a proven track record in both large-scale and community-focused solar projects, they are committed to making solar energy accessible and affordable across the nation.

Position Overview:

They are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to head their Community Solar Business. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the development and growth of their community solar division, overseeing project development, land acquisition, strategic partnerships, and execution of projects from inception to completion. This role requires close collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders, as well as oversight of market expansion strategies. The Head of Community Solar Business will report directly to the CEO and play a key role in shaping the company’s community-scale solar strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Lead the community solar division, developing and executing growth strategies that align with company goals and market opportunities.
• Drive the overall vision for community solar development, including business models, customer acquisition strategies, regulatory compliance, and project financing.
• Collaborate with the executive team to ensure alignment with the company’s utility-scale solar and storage business.

Project Development & Execution:

• Oversee all aspects of community solar project development, from site selection and land acquisition to permitting, financing, and construction.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet performance targets.
• Build and manage a high-performing team of developers, engineers, and project managers.

Land Acquisition:

• Oversee the land acquisition team for community solar projects, who identify suitable sites and negotiate land leases and purchases.
• Collaborate with landowners, municipalities, and other stakeholders to secure project sites while managing land-related risks.

Partnerships & Customer Engagement:

• Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, local governments, utilities, landowners, and financing partners.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with community organizations, local businesses, and municipalities to drive community engagement and subscription growth.

Regulatory & Compliance Oversight:

• Stay informed of evolving state and federal policies, ensuring that all projects comply with regulatory requirements.
• Engage with regulators and policymakers to influence positive outcomes for community solar projects.

Financial Oversight:

• Work closely with the finance team to develop project budgets, secure financing, and manage P&L responsibilities for the community solar business.
• Monitor project financial performance and ensure adherence to financial targets and company-wide KPIs.

Reporting & Communication:

• Provide regular updates to the CEO and board on the status of the community solar pipeline, financial performance, and strategic initiatives.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in renewable energy, with at least 5 years in a leadership role focused on solar project development (community solar experience is preferred).
• Proven track record of successfully leading teams in the development, execution, and delivery of solar energy projects.

Leadership:

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.

Financial Acumen:

• Solid understanding of project finance and the ability to manage P&L responsibilities for a division.

Regulatory Knowledge:

• Comprehensive understanding of the regulatory environment for community solar projects in the U.S., with the ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Management:

• Experience building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, including landowners, utility companies, customers, and policymakers.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (engineering, business, environmental science, or public policy). MBA or advanced degree in a relevant field is preferred.