At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead solar energy projects from feasibility to operations, ensuring investment readiness.
- Company: Dynamic energy company focused on innovative project development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, healthcare discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with excellent growth opportunities and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in renewable energy while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in project development or management within energy or infrastructure sectors.
Base Location: You'll be expected to spend 50% of your working week in one of the following locations: Reading, London, Glasgow, Perth, Manchester.
Salary: £50,000 - £65,000 plus performance‑related bonus and a range of benefits to support finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full time | Flexible first options available.
The role: We are seeking a Project Development Manager to lead the development of Behind‑the‑Meter (BtM) energy projects, predominantly solar. The role combines project development responsibilities with a short‑term secondment into business development, providing a unique view of the full project lifecycle from pipeline growth and new opportunity origination through to investment decision and operations. This high‑impact role requires strong commercial, technical and stakeholder‑management capability.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of BtM projects through early‑stage feasibility, commercial structuring and governance gates, ensuring readiness for investment decision and operations.
- Develop robust project propositions, coordinating technical, commercial and financial inputs and preparing governance submissions.
- Manage client relationships and support origination, qualification and progression of new opportunities during the business‑development secondment.
- Coordinate cross‑functional teams (engineering, commercial, legal, finance) to deliver high‑quality, investable solutions aligned to customer needs.
- Ensure compliance with internal governance, risk management and approval processes throughout the project lifecycle.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience in project development, project management or business development within energy, infrastructure or related sectors.
- Strong commercial acumen, ability to assess project viability and contribute to commercial structuring and negotiations.
- Experience managing complex stakeholder environments, including customers, internal teams and senior decision‑makers.
- Demonstrable ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive projects through structured governance processes.
- Degree qualification (or equivalent experience) in project management, engineering, energy, finance or a related discipline.
Benefits: Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships; wellbeing benefits such as a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service; interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle‑to‑Work scheme; generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Equal Opportunity Statement: SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact zoe.gillespie@sse.com to discuss how we can support you. We’re dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive, creating equal opportunities for everyone.
Project Development Manager in Reading employer: SSE PLC
At SSE, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises flexibility and employee wellbeing. With a competitive salary range of £50,000 - £65,000, alongside performance-related bonuses and comprehensive benefits, including private healthcare and family entitlements, we support our employees' financial and personal growth. Our commitment to inclusivity and professional development ensures that as a Project Development Manager, you will thrive in a collaborative environment while leading impactful energy projects across various locations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Development Manager in Reading
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughSSE PLC's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through SSE PLC's website for the full-time Project Development Manager role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Development Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at SSE PLC. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE PLC
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of SSE PLC.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to SSE PLC.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
