Job Title: Head of Planning & Development
Business Unit: Commercial
Reporting to: Head of Commercial
Location: Newbridge
Duration: Permanent
Overview:
This senior role will lead planning and consenting across a renewable energy portfolio, including wind (onshore/offshore), solar, battery storage, and green hydrogen. The position oversees strategy, stakeholder engagement, environmental assessment, and statutory processes across multiple jurisdictions.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategy & Leadership
* Lead the planning and consenting strategy across all development projects.
* Advise senior management on planning, regulatory, and environmental matters.
* Shape governance for site selection and project progression.
* Represent the organisation in policy discussions, inquiries, and industry forums.
* Engage with regulators and stakeholders to influence the planning environment.
* Implement development processes and risk mitigation strategies.
Planning & Consenting
* Manage planning applications and consents for multiple projects.
* Own consenting strategies and timelines aligned with commercial goals.
* Identify and resolve planning risks in collaboration with legal and executive teams.
Project Management
* Deliver multiple infrastructure projects with varied scope and complexity.
* Manage procurement and contracts for planning and environmental services.
Stakeholder Engagement
* Lead engagement with partners, authorities, and communities.
* Build relationships with planning bodies, government departments, and NGOs.
* Represent the organisation at national forums and industry groups.
Team Leadership
* Lead and mentor a high-performing planning and environmental team.
* Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and quality.
* Manage external consultants and advisors.
Health & Safety / Performance
* Comply with all health and safety policies.
* Actively contribute to performance reviews and team objectives.
Candidate Profile:
Qualifications
* Honours degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Planning, or similar.
Experience
* 10+ years in renewable energy development.
* Strong background in planning, EIA, and complex infrastructure projects.
* Experience with large-scale applications and multi-stakeholder environments.
Skills
* Knowledge of Irish/EU planning laws and environmental regulations.
* Familiarity with energy technologies, grid systems, and EIAR development.
* Strong project, programme, and stakeholder management skills.
* Proven leadership and negotiation abilities.
Attributes
* Solutions-focused, organised, and self-motivated.
* High attention to detail and quality.
* Professional memberships (e.g., IPI, RTPI, IEMA) are a plus.
For a full job spec please conact Shirley Kiernan onn 086 783 1786.
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