Procurement Director BESS & Solar USA / LATAM

Taylor Hopkinson is seeking a Procurement Director for BESS & Solar in the USA/LATAM, primarily based in Chicago, Mexico City, or Santiago, with potential for remote arrangements. The role involves developing procurement strategies, managing contracts, leading negotiations, and mentoring teams within a dynamic environment. The candidate should have at least 15 years of relevant experience in large-scale projects in renewable energy or related fields.
Taylor Hopkinson is in search of a Procurement Director BESS & Solar USA / LATAM to join CIP Terra Technologies, a division of the global fund management company Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP).

The Role

We are committed to building a deeply motivated, diverse, and skilled team dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet. We are looking for a Procurement Director BESS & Solar Procurement responsible for all procurement and supplier-related initiatives within our BESS & Solar projects in the US & LATAM. There may also be requirements to support other technologies (primarily onshore wind) depending on future business needs.

This position will directly report to the Global Head of Technical & Procurement and will be primarily based in the US Mexico, or Chile with travel as required. Ideally based in a relevant CIP Terra office location- Chicago, Mexico City or Santiago-however, alternative arrangements can be considered for the most suitable candidate.

The workload and travel activity will vary, and flexibility is expected from both sides. We work in a dynamic environment with frequent changes, so a positive approach is highly valued. You will have the opportunity to adjust your daily routine and schedule.

Responsibilities
• Develop contracting and procurement strategies for the given categories: Create and implement procurement and contract management strategies to support project goals and financing requirements.
• Manage contracting and procurement activities: Oversee contracting and procurement strategies and schedules across all project packages to ensure timelines are met. Develop global standards and establish framework agreements.
• Lead Contract Negotiations: Negotiate large CAPEX projects, strategic supply agreements, as well as contracts to support the long-term operation of BESS & Solar projects. Liaise with contracting and legal experts and technical experts within the same function.
• Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic leadership and direction for the procurement of given category across all projects and regions.
• Risk Management: Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate procurement-related risks and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Performance Metrics: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of procurement activities and drive continuous improvement.
• Market Intelligence: Secure and report on market intelligence and provide strategic guidance
• Industry stakeholder management: Cultivate relationships and engage with senior stakeholders, including executive leadership, from key suppliers: Identify opportunities and mitigate risks through strong supplier relationships.
• Build and Mentor Teams: Oversee and inspire a small team of skilled procurement and contract managers to enhance high performance.
• Contribute to building functional capabilities: Coordinate supplier engagement with other projects and enhance learnings across projects.

Main internal Stakeholders
• Project team
• CIP Terra Technologies Procurement Function
• CIP Investment team

You

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in EPC contracting and supply chain development within large-scale projects in BESS & Solar, renewable, oil & gas, or similar industries. Experience in leading procurement functions and managing complex projects.

You are a strategic thinker, capable of understanding value and risk drivers in large projects. Moreover, you are a motivated collaborator who thrives in a highly effective and innovative environment.

We look for the following in a candidate:
• Proven experience in BESS & Solar procurement and project management
• Strong negotiation skills and experience with large CAPEX projects
• Strong understanding of financial principles and the ability to manage budgets and financial performance
• Excellent relationship management and communication skills
• Ability to lead and inspire teams to achieve high performance
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment