Project Manager (Renewable Energy)

LOCATION: Durham

ROLE OVERVIEW: My client is seeking a Project Manager to lead, manage, and inspire multidisciplinary teams—both internal and external—within a structured project management framework. The role is central to delivering successful projects that drive the growth of a thriving renewables development firm. The Project Manager will be responsible for advancing complex projects through their development lifecycle while maintaining a proactive approach to risk management. This position demands the development and execution of project strategies with a strong emphasis on cost control and adherence to health and safety standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead, manage, and motivate project teams to achieve successful outcomes that align with business targets and growth objectives.
• Manage projects in accordance with the established Project Management Framework (PMF).
• Coordinate and develop comprehensive strategies that balance commercial risk, planning success, and project deliverability.
• Propose and implement robust risk management strategies throughout the entire project lifecycle.
• Develop and maintain accurate core project documentation, including Financial Appraisals, Programmes, Cashflow, Budget, Health and Safety Information, and Risk/Opportunity Registers.
• Drive efficiency improvements and cost reductions in line with strategic project goals.
• Successfully deliver projects from inception and site identification through to engineering design, planning consents, due diligence, financial close, and construction.
• Collaborate closely with the senior management team to implement portfolio strategies.
• Support the skills development of the broader project management team in collaboration with the Projects Director.
• Build and maintain key external relationships with project decision-makers, including statutory bodies, politicians, landowners, and host communities, with support from Estates, Community Managers, and Planners.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Health and Safety Management
• Commercial viability
• Budgetary control and procurement
• Financial assessment and appraisals
• Risk and opportunity management
• Compliance with the agreed PMF
• Ensuring projects progress with the requisite authority levels and managing business expectations
• Quality assurance and adherence to project standards
• Providing project assurance to the board
• Sponsor management
• Programme and resource management
• Conflict resolution
• Project administration

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE:

Essential:

• Degree or equivalent qualifications
• Minimum of 3 years of project management experience in commercial-scale renewable energy or property development projects
• Basic understanding of project management principles (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, RICS)
• Strong grasp of valuation methods, budgeting, and accounting principles
• Proven leadership and people management skills
• Knowledge of health and safety legislation or related qualification
• Experience in coordinating multidisciplinary teams
• Broad understanding of renewable energy technologies
• Detailed understanding of risk management principles
• Proven track record in strategy development and project delivery
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Understanding of the UK planning system

Desirable:

• Degree in environmental studies, renewable energy, property, engineering, or a related science
• Professional qualification (RICS, IEMA, APM, or similar)
• In-depth knowledge of the town and country planning process
• Experience with site identification, financing, due diligence, construction, and delivery
• Experience in tendering, negotiating, and implementing key contracts
• Understanding of the UK political system, with existing political relationships preferred

PERSONAL QUALITIES/COMPETENCIES:

• Commercially minded with strong interpersonal skills
• Comfortable working with senior management
• High level of self-awareness and personal resilience
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and make sound decisions
• Self-starter with strong negotiation, influencing, and motivational skills
• Strategic thinker who can manage day-to-day details
• Independent thinker capable of challenging current practices
• Attentive to detail with a strong commitment to integrity and honesty
• Proven ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Team player with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude toward overcoming technical challenges
• Resilient and perseverant on long-term projects
• Willingness to travel regularly, including site visits and overnight stays.