Senior Development Manager - Clean Energy

Leap29 is seeking a Senior Development Manager for Clean Energy projects based in the Reston, VA area. This hybrid role involves leading the development of utility-scale solar, wind, and hybrid energy projects across the U.S., overseeing all project phases, managing team members, and engaging with stakeholders. Candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in project development and be willing to travel frequently.
Senior Development Manager – Clean Energy

Leap29 are searching for a Senior Development Manager, for utility scale Solar, Onshore Wind and Hybrid energy to be based in Washington DC region, on behalf of a large global business.

Job Summary:

Join a dynamic and growing Clean Energy Development team as a Senior Development Manager, where you'll play a key leadership role in an ambitious and high-profile renewable energy initiative backed by a well-funded corporation. We’re seeking a driven and experienced professional to lead the development of multiple utility-scale solar, onshore wind, and hybrid energy projects across the U.S.

As a senior member of the team, you will oversee all phases of project development—from early-stage site identification to preparing projects for construction. You’ll manage both existing assets and pursue new opportunities, including greenfield developments and acquisitions. This role involves direct and indirect leadership of team members, cross-functional collaboration, and frequent engagement with landowners, regulators, and community stakeholders.

This is a hybrid position, requiring at least three days per week in-person at your assigned office or project site, in accordance with our global telework policy.

Key Responsibilities:
• Lead development of assigned clean energy projects through all phases to construction-ready status.
• Manage key workstreams such as site control, permitting, and interconnection.
• Mentor and oversee other team members within the Clean Energy Development group.
• Identify and evaluate new development opportunities, including greenfield sites and acquisitions.
• Secure land agreements (e.g., leases, easements) and maintain landowner relationships.
• Lead permitting processes at all levels—local, state, and federal.
• Manage interconnection applications and coordinate with transmission providers.
• Oversee project design in collaboration with internal engineering and EPC teams.
• Support financial modeling, pricing analysis, and offtake structuring.
• Track and manage project budgets and schedules.
• Represent in meetings with stakeholders, including partners, landowners, and public officials.

Education & Experience:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (or international equivalent), preferably in engineering, business, or finance.
• Minimum of 10 years in utility-scale solar and/or wind project development.

Key Skills & Attributes:
• Proven experience leading or managing development teams.
• Strong external engagement skills, including with landowners, consultants, and agencies.
• Strategic thinking in identifying and assessing new project opportunities.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel frequently (25%+).

Preferred Qualifications:
• Background in developing both solar and wind projects (battery storage experience is a plus).
• Familiarity with project engineering and EPC collaboration.
• Experience in multiple U.S. energy markets (e.g., ERCOT, MISO, PJM, SPP).
• Advanced degree (MBA or Master’s in a related field).

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