Project Development Manager in Utility-Scale Solar PV in Leeds

A growing renewable energy business is seeking an experienced Project Development Manager to oversee a portfolio of utility-scale solar projects across the U.S. This role will manage projects through the full development lifecycle, from origination and permitting through to notice to proceed and construction support. The ideal candidate will bring strong solar project development experience, a solid understanding of county zoning and permitting, and a proven track record of advancing projects from initial site origination through development completion. This position requires someone who is commercially aware, highly organized, and able to work cross-functionally across internal teams and external stakeholders.

The company operates with an in-house model across development, interconnection, GIS, real estate, legal, environmental, EPC, and O&M, offering the opportunity to work closely with a broad range of specialists to drive projects forward efficiently.

Role Overview

The Project Development Manager will act as a key internal and external project lead, coordinating permitting, stakeholder engagement, project progress, and risk management across the development lifecycle. This person will work closely with origination teams, consultants, local officials, and internal departments to support successful project delivery. This role is well suited to a proactive and detail-oriented professional with strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to manage complex development workstreams.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and manage all required permits for selected project sites.
• Coordinate with local consultants and attorneys to prepare and submit permit applications and related filings.
• Represent the company at permitting hearings and public meetings, including providing testimony where required.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with county and state officials, residents, and industry stakeholders.
• Provide guidance to origination teams on county ordinances, permitting risks, local sentiment, and development opportunities.
• Serve as a project champion from origination through construction.
• Work closely with internal teams including Development, Engineering, Environmental, Legal, Project Finance, EPC, and executive leadership.
• Track project budgets, schedules, progress, and key risks.
• Oversee external consultants including environmental, engineering, and transmission advisors.
• Support project marketing strategy in collaboration with External Affairs.
• Assist with project acquisitions and M&A as needed.
• Travel frequently within the region to support stakeholder relationships and project advancement.

Profile

• 5 years of project development experience.
• Direct utility-scale solar experience strongly preferred; wind or BESS experience also valued.
• Experience with county and state permitting processes.
• Strong work ethic with the ability to take ownership and work collaboratively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong negotiation, research, and presentation ability.
• Undergraduate degree in a development-related field preferred.
• Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and internet-based research.
• Self-motivated, able to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Valid driver’s licence and safe driving record.
• Willingness to travel when required.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive base salary.
• Annual bonus.
• Equity plan.
• 401(k) match.
• Health cover.
• Opportunity to join a fast-growing development team with a strong project pipeline.
• Exposure to a broad, cross-functional in-house platform.
• Strong career growth potential within a collaborative and dynamic organisation.