• Entrepreneurial, hands-on leadership role
• High-impact first hire with ability to build strategy, team and culture
• Melbourne CBD - NDA required

We are partnering exclusively with an energy start-up to help them find their General Manager of Development to lead their Melbourne-based development team as the first hire. This is a rare opportunity to shape a new business, drive renewable and storage projects, and establish strategy and processes from day one.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build a strategic project pipeline targeting sub-5 MW projects, with scope for future utility-scale expansion.
• Lead planning, approvals, land access, community engagement, and grid connections.
• Collaborate with technical consultants, investors, and EPC partners.
• Establish and lead a high-performing development team.
• Prepare investment cases, feasibility studies, and oversee project budgets and risk.
• Forge strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including traditional owners and local communities.

Candidate Profile:

• 5–10 years’ experience in energy asset development, preferably renewables/BESS.
• Entrepreneurial, hands-on, and comfortable creating strategy and building processes.
• Commercially minded with strong financial understanding.
• Proven success in onboarding, developing, and leading high-performing teams.
• Thrives in start-up environments and can operate autonomously.

Additional Info:

• Confidential search; candidates will be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).
• Location: Melbourne CBD | Full-time | Retained search

What’s in it for you?

• First-hire, high-impact leadership role in a start-up environment.
• Opportunity to build and lead the development team and shape company culture.
• Lead sub-5 MW renewable and storage projects, with potential to scale to utility-scale.
• Work alongside experienced investors and technical experts in a well-financed venture.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
All applicants will be considered without attention to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or veteran/disability status.
Application Instructions:
For a confidential conversation, please contact Anna Spain on +61 (0)3 9192 9920 or email anna@phillipriley.com.au, or "Apply" with a resume (WORD format) and brief cover letter addressing your suitability, quoting job reference JOB REF#3993925
Connect via LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-spain-a789233
Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/phillip-riley