Project Development Manager

I’m currently supporting a well-capitalised renewable energy developer that is expanding its project development team in Germany. The company is active across photovoltaic and battery storage projects and is scaling rapidly, supported by strong financial backing and a long-term growth strategy.

They are looking to appoint a Project Manager for Permitting and Development to take ownership of the approval planning process for utility-scale renewable energy projects. This role plays a central part in bringing projects from mid-stage development through to ready-to-build (RTB) status and acts as the key interface between internal teams, external partners, and authorities.

Key responsibilities:

• Manage the full permitting process for photovoltaic and battery storage projects, taking them from mid-stage development through to ready-to-build status
• Coordinate and manage external partners, including planning offices, authorities, landowners, and grid operators
• Lead approval planning activities and ensure applications and documentation are submitted accurately and on time
• Participate in on-site meetings and discussions with authorities and stakeholders to align on development steps and mitigation measures
• Manage budgets related to approval planning and ensure cost control throughout the permitting phase
• Define project scope, objectives, and technical options in collaboration with relevant stakeholders
• Track and evaluate project performance using appropriate tools and reporting structures
• Identify, assess, and proactively manage project risks
• Continuously review market developments and improve internal processes to increase permitting efficiency
• Ensure transparent documentation and regular reporting on project and portfolio progress
• Develop project schedules and ensure milestones are met on time

Candidate profile:

• Degree or vocational training in a relevant discipline (e.g. planning, engineering, real estate, or similar)
• 6–10 years’ experience in project development, permitting, urban land‑use planning, or comparable planning procedures
• Proven experience securing permits for renewable energy projects in Germany, ideally through to ready‑to‑build status
• Confident and professional approach when working with authorities, grid operators, consultants, and landowners
• Willingness to travel nationally for meetings and site visits
• Strong communication, negotiation, and problem‑solving skills with a structured, goal‑oriented mindset
• Highly organised and hands‑on, able to manage multiple projects in parallel
• Business‑fluent German (C1/C2) ; confident using MS Office tools
• Valid driving licence (Class B)

What’s on offer:

• Permanent employment within a growing renewable energy platform
• A varied and responsible role in a future‑oriented sector
• Collaborative working environment with flat hierarchies and strong team culture
• Support for work‑life balance through flexible working models
• Competitive salary package with additional benefits
• Ongoing professional and personal development opportunities