Job Title: Renewable Energy Development Director
Job Description:
As a key member of our team, you will play a pivotal role in the delivery of large-scale biogas infrastructure projects. Your expertise will be instrumental in leading planning and permitting processes from concept through to construction, working closely with design teams, environmental consultants, regulatory bodies, and community stakeholders.
We are seeking an experienced professional to manage the planning process to obtain consents for large-scale renewable energy developments. This involves coordinating external consultants to deliver Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), Ecological Impact Assessments, and other statutory studies. You will also prepare comprehensive planning application documentation, identify and resolve planning and permitting issues during project design, and lead the submission of environmental consent applications.
In addition to your technical expertise, you will engage with key stakeholders, including local authorities, environmental agencies, landowners, and residents. You will organize and execute public consultation events, support planning appeals and inquiries, including acting as an expert witness where necessary, and manage discharge of planning conditions and compliance in the pre-construction phase.
We require a candidate who can conduct site selection and environmental due diligence for new development opportunities, monitor legislative and policy developments in the biogas and planning sectors, and contribute to strategic planning and commercial analysis alongside the Commercial Team. You will also provide regular project updates to the Chief Operations Officer and deliver projects on time, on budget, and to specification.
Requirements:
• Degree (NFQ Level 8) in Planning, Environmental Science, or related discipline
• Postgraduate qualification (NFQ Level 9) desirable however not essential
• Ideally 15 years' experience in planning and environmental permitting for large infrastructure projects, preferably in renewable energy.
• Deep knowledge of EIA, AA, and environmental licensing processes
• Experience liaising with regulators, statutory bodies, and the public
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
• Strategic thinker with excellent judgement and decision-making skills