Director of Development, Distributed Generation

Leap29 presents an exciting opportunity for the position of Director of Development, Distributed Generation, covering both the East Coast and West Coast regions.

Our Client, as one of North America's leading decarbonization-as-a-service providers, our client is dedicated to delivering accessible, reliable, and renewable energy infrastructure, driving the transition to a zero-emissions future. They operate extensively across educational, commercial, industrial, utility, and municipal sectors, with distributed energy resources in 28 states. Their offerings include on-site and off-site solar, energy storage, and EV infrastructure.

The Director of Development will be a key player in the Decarbonization team, reporting directly to the VP of Origination. This role involves spearheading the development of PV, BESS, and EV infrastructure projects across either or both coasts. Responsibilities include sourcing new opportunities through existing networks, as well as nurturing early and mid-stage projects initiated by team members. Projects could range from advancing permitting and interconnection efforts for national manufacturers to developing EV/BESS/PV systems at regional mall locations or permitting community solar sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead site acquisition, site control diligence, and maintain positive landowner relations.
• Oversee environmental and geotechnical studies to mitigate impacts.
• Manage third-party engineering studies and permitting, ensuring site plans and timelines align.
• Coordinate project designs and optimize interconnection processes.
• Foster positive utility relationships and navigate the interconnection process.
• Attend town hall meetings and assist with acquiring PILOTs and tax exemptions.
• Stay informed about local and federal policies affecting active markets.
• Conduct project due diligence and provide development recommendations.
• Track and report project progress and budget adherence.
• Build strong working relationships internally and externally, managing multiple projects effectively.
• Oversee permitting efforts and approval processes for projects.
• Coach staff and manage teams towards high performance and engagement.
• Collaborate with Origination, Technical Sales, Capital Markets, and Legal teams to develop and execute business plans.
• Travel as needed.
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience in developing and implementing distributed energy projects on the East Coast, Mid-Atlantic, or Northeast (for East Coast candidates), or in CA (for West Coast candidates).
• Bachelor's degree or higher, preferably in engineering, business, real estate, finance, or related fields.
• Experience with distributed and/or wholesale generation, solar energy, battery storage, EV charging, and other distributed energy technologies.
• Proven track record in Renewable Energy EPC, contract negotiations, and driving operational performance in renewable energy projects.
• Extensive knowledge of the energy sector, including solar, BESS, DG, EV, and hybrid models.
  
  

Desired Skills

• Self-motivated, dynamic, and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Strong analytical and financial modeling skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to drive commercial processes, manage stakeholders, and innovate to maximize project value.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills.
• Willingness to travel and conduct site visits.
• Innovative thinker with a passion for continuous improvement and impacting business strategy.
  
  

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of renewable energy infrastructure and contribute to a zero-emissions future.

If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity, please send your CV through to Rob Byom.