Senior Associate: Project Finance (Fixed Term Contract - 2 Years)

Mulilo is seeking a Senior Associate: Project Finance for a fixed-term contract in Cape Town, South Africa. The role involves managing financial aspects of renewable energy projects, including financial modeling, capital raising, and risk assessment. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of project finance principles. Mulilo emphasizes career progression and a collaborative work culture while focusing on renewable energy development.
About the Company


Since its establishment in 2008, Mulilo has grown into one of South Africa’s leading Independent Power Producers (IPP). Mulilo is majority owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), with Norfund holding an additional investment through the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund.


Mulilo develops, constructs and operates utility scale wind, solar PV and battery energy storage projects across South Africa. The company currently operates 450 MW of wind and solar capacity, with a further 765 MW under construction. A portfolio exceeding 2 GW is advancing toward financial close, while the long-term development pipeline exceeds 30 GW.


Mulilo has concluded power purchase agreements under the South African government’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), as well as private offtake agreements with several large corporate energy users.


Mulilo places significant emphasis on its people and recognises that successful infrastructure delivery depends on capable and committed teams. The company prides itself on providing a world-class working environment, with a clear focus on career progression and personal growth. Grounded in its values, Mulilo fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration and purpose, while remaining committed to its environmental, social and governance responsibilities.


About this role


The Senior Associate: Project Finance plays a critical role in the development and execution of renewable energy projects in South Africa, responsible for managing all financial aspects from inception to completion. This role requires a deep understanding of project finance principles, strong analytical skills, and the ability to navigate complex financial structures to secure funding and optimize financial performance.


Duties and responsibilities


Financial Modelling and Analysis



Develop and maintain detailed financial models to evaluate the feasibility of renewable energy projects, including cash flow projections, sensitivity analyses, and investment metrics such as NPV and IRR.
Conduct comprehensive financial analysis to assess project risks and identify opportunities for optimization.
Operationalise financial close models, from initial set-up through ongoing quality control, while contributing to portfolio model updates, valuations, and financial reporting.

Funding and Capital Raising



Support efforts to secure project financing from a variety of sources, including commercial banks, development finance institutions, private equity investors, and public grants or incentives.
Negotiate terms and conditions of debt and equity financing agreements, ensuring alignment with project objectives and financial sustainability.

Due Diligence and Risk Assessment



Coordinate financial due diligence activities with internal and external stakeholders, including legal, technical, and environmental consultants.
Identify and assess financial risks associated with renewable energy projects, such as market volatility, regulatory changes, and currency fluctuations, and develop mitigation strategies for project economics.

Financial Structuring



Design optimal financial structures for renewable energy projects, balancing the interests of project sponsors, investors, and lenders while maximizing returns and minimizing costs.
Evaluate different financing options, including debt, equity, and hybrid structures, and recommend the most suitable approach based on project characteristics and market conditions.

Reporting and Compliance



Prepare business case presentations and updates to project stakeholders, including the board and shareholders.

Relationship Management



Cultivate strong relationships with financial institutions, investors, and other key stakeholders.

Required skills and education background.



Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
Advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CFA, MBA, CA(SA), FMVA, CPFA) preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in project finance, investment banking, or corporate finance, with a focus on modelling for renewable energy or infrastructure projects.
Demonstrated proficiency in financial modelling, valuation techniques, and risk analysis, with a track record of successfully structuring and closing complex financing transactions.
Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build consensus and influence decision-making among diverse stakeholders.
Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
Proficiency in financial software and tools, such as Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI and specialized project finance modelling software.
Commitment to sustainability and renewable energy development, with a passion for driving positive social and environmental impact through finance and investment.

Desirable attributes


The ideal candidate would have a passion for the Renewable Energy sector and personality traits would include a high level of diligence, determination, resilience, and agility.


Mulilo is an employer of choice and is offering an extremely competitive total remuneration package for this position.


Additional Information


Able to work overtime according to operational needs.


The position is based at the offices of the company, but travel may be required occasionally.