Development Manager Solar projects

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Akuo seeks a Development Manager to lead end-to-end solar project development from site identification to final investment decision in Wellington, onsite. You will coordinate a global internal team and external consultants across planning, grid connection, and EPC engagement, and work with lines companies and Transpower on connection assets. The role covers regulatory applications, stakeholder engagement with communities, iwi and councils, and contributing to an Overseas Investment Office process to secure sensitive land. Strong budgeting, risk management and mentoring are essential, along with staying current on policy changes. To apply, show 3+ years of end-to-end solar development, cross-functional leadership, and measurable project outcomes in a tailored resume and cover letter.

Company Description

Akuo is a French renewable energy producer (wind, solar, and storage).

The Group is active across the entire value chain: from development to operation, including financing and construction.

By the end of 2024, Akuo will have a total capacity in operation and under construction of 1.9 GW and a project portfolio of more than 10 GW. With more than 450 employees, the Group, headquartered in Paris, develops projects in more than 15 countries around the world, mainly in Europe and America.

Job Description

Your responsibilities will be as follows:

Managing development and delivery of projects in line with company values, internal policies and procedures :

• Managing and coordinating a global internal project team on all aspects of renewable energy project design, planning and grid connection development.
• Scoping and managing external consultants in preparing planning applications for councils and other regulatory bodies. 
• Working with the grid connections manager in engaging with lines companies and Transpower in relation to connection assets
• Contributing to the preparation of an Overseas Investment Office application in order to secure sensitive land.
• Preparing and undertaking stakeholder engagement and management including community and neighbours, Iwi and councils.
• Undertaking project planning, reporting and budgeting.
• Providing advice to the senior management team.
• Undertaking risk assessment, management and reporting.
• Training and mentoring new team members.
• Assisting in evaluating and preparing responses to proposed electricity participant code rule changes, planning and consenting law changes and Transpower connection process changes.
• Maintain updated knowledge of rule and policy changes that impact solar and storage development.
• Full process ownership of the development of projects from initial site identification to final investment decision in line with Group guidelines, policies and ethics.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the New Zealand business.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years relevant experience.
• Preferred relevant qualifications in either Engineering/Project Management/Environmental Sciences and relevant industry certifications.
  Management and coordination of the development process of grid connected solar farms (or other renewables) to include:

- Preparing development plans, budgets, and management thereof

- Relationship management of community, Iwi and council  stakeholders

- Coordinating key workstreams in conjunction with internal and external specialists across planning, engineering, grid connection, EPC engagement, financing and offtake

- Developing and maintaining key project management and risk management tools.

• Strong communication, interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.

Additional Information

Permanent and full-time contract.

Please note that Akuo's business is new in New Zealand.
You will be in regular contact with developers from other regions and countries within the group, notably France, Portugal, Latin America, and Central Europe.

Based in 36 Customhouse Quay, Wellington Central, Wellington, New Zealand