At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the construction of innovative renewable energy projects across the UK.
- Company: Join Zenexa Renewables, a fast-growing leader in renewable energy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, pension contributions, and professional development support.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's transition to a low-carbon future.
- Qualifications: Experience in renewable energy construction and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Zenexa Renewables
Zenexa Renewables Limited is a rapidly growing renewable energy platform focused on the development, construction and operation of utility-scale renewable energy projects across the United Kingdom. Backed by significant platform-level investment, Zenexa is developing a 5GW pipeline of renewable energy assets, including solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS) and associated grid infrastructure. Our ambition is to become a leading Independent Power Producer (IPP), supporting the UK's transition to a low-carbon future.
As we continue to scale, we are seeking an experienced Group Head of Construction to lead the safe and successful construction delivery of our growing renewable energy portfolio.
About the Role
Reporting to the MD, the Head of Construction will be responsible for leading all construction activities across Zenexa's project portfolio, ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on programme and to the highest standards of quality. This role will provide strategic and operational leadership throughout the construction phase of utility-scale renewable energy projects, including solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS), substations and associated grid infrastructure.
The successful candidate will oversee construction delivery teams, contractors and site management resources, ensuring construction activities align with project objectives, commercial requirements and stakeholder expectations. The Head of Construction will play a critical role in building Zenexa's construction capability as the business scales from development into full project delivery and long-term asset ownership.
Key Responsibilities
- Construction Leadership
- Develop and implement construction delivery strategies across the company's project portfolio.
- Establish and lead a high-performing construction function capable of delivering multiple concurrent projects.
- Build and manage relationships with principal contractors, subcontractors and key construction partners.
- Provide visible leadership across project sites, promoting a strong culture of safety, accountability and operational excellence.
- Support the development of construction standards, procedures and best practice frameworks across the organisation.
- Project Delivery
- Lead the construction delivery of utility-scale solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS), substations and associated infrastructure.
- Assume day-to-day accountability for construction programme performance across all active projects.
- Ensure construction activities are delivered safely, on programme, within budget and in accordance with approved specifications.
- Oversee project mobilisation, site establishment and construction execution activities.
- Lead construction readiness reviews prior to mobilisation and ensure projects are adequately prepared for safe and efficient execution.
- Monitor project progress and intervene proactively to address programme risks and delivery challenges.
- Support commissioning and energisation activities, ensuring construction works are completed and handed over in accordance with project requirements.
- Own site productivity, construction sequencing and contractor performance metrics across the portfolio.
- Ensure effective coordination between construction, engineering, procurement, commercial and commissioning teams.
- Support project commissioning, energisation and handover activities.
- Contractor Management
- Manage the performance of EPC contractors, principal contractors, subcontractors and specialist suppliers.
- Monitor contractor compliance with contractual obligations, quality requirements and programme commitments.
- Conduct regular project reviews, site inspections and performance assessments.
- Resolve construction-related issues and disputes in a timely and professional manner.
- Promote collaborative working relationships across the project supply chain.
- Health, Safety & Environment
- Champion a culture where safety is the highest priority across all project sites.
- Work closely with the Head of HSE to ensure compliance with all applicable health, safety and environmental requirements.
- Ensure construction activities are undertaken in accordance with CDM Regulations 2015 and company standards.
- Support incident investigations and implementation of corrective actions.
- Promote behavioural safety initiatives and continuous improvement across construction operations.
- Quality & Assurance
- Ensure robust quality assurance and quality control processes are implemented across all projects.
- Monitor workmanship, installation standards and compliance with project specifications.
- Oversee inspection and test plans, quality audits and construction assurance activities.
- Ensure all construction records, quality documentation and handover information are maintained and completed appropriately.
- Drive continuous improvement in construction quality and delivery performance.
- Stakeholder Management
- Act as the senior construction representative for project stakeholders, contractors and site teams.
- Support engagement with landowners, local authorities, regulatory bodies and community stakeholders where required.
- Provide regular construction updates to the Head of Project Delivery and Executive Team.
- Support lender technical advisors, owner's engineers and project investors during project delivery activities.
- Team Leadership
- Recruit, develop and mentor construction professionals as the organisation grows.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Support succession planning and capability development across the construction function.
- Promote strong communication and knowledge sharing across projects.
Requirements
Essential
- Significant experience leading construction delivery within renewable energy, utilities, power generation or major infrastructure sectors.
- Proven track record delivering utility-scale solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS), substations and associated infrastructure projects.
- Strong understanding of construction methodologies, contractor management and project execution.
- Demonstrable experience managing principal contractors and complex construction supply chains.
- Strong understanding of CDM Regulations 2015 and construction-related health and safety requirements.
- Experience delivering projects through construction, commissioning and handover phases.
- Strong programme management and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent leadership and stakeholder management capability.
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects across geographically dispersed locations.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel extensively across project sites.
Desirable
- Degree-qualified in Engineering, Construction Management or a related discipline.
- Chartered status or membership of a relevant professional institution.
- Experience working within an Independent Power Producer (IPP), Developer, Utility, ICP or EPC Contractor environment.
- Knowledge of grid connection construction activities and substation delivery.
- SMSTS qualification.
- Experience supporting lender technical due diligence and project financing activities.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and performance-related bonus.
- Pension contribution.
- Annual leave entitlement.
- Professional development support.
- Opportunity to play a key role in delivering a major renewable energy portfolio.
- Collaborative and entrepreneurial working environment.
Equal Opportunities
Zenexa Renewables is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We recognise that a broad range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives strengthens our business and supports better decision-making, innovation and project delivery. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to providing a fair, transparent and inclusive recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to support your application.
Right to Work
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom.
Group Head of Construction in England employer: Zenexa Renewables
Zenexa Renewables is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment where innovation thrives in the renewable energy sector. With a strong commitment to employee development and a focus on safety and quality, team members are empowered to lead significant projects that contribute to a sustainable future. The company's inclusive culture and competitive benefits package make it an attractive place for professionals seeking meaningful careers in the rapidly evolving energy landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Head of Construction in England
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Zenexa Renewables, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Group Head of Construction at Zenexa Renewables.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Head of Construction in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zenexa Renewables
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!