Project Development Manager
Job description
I’m currently supporting a growing renewable energy platform that develops and delivers large-scale PV and battery energy storage projects (BESS) across Germany. As part of continued growth, they are looking to hire a Project Development Manager to take ownership of projects through the German permitting and planning process, leading them through to Ready-to-Build (RTB) status.
This is a delivery-focused role, suited to someone who enjoys taking responsibility, working closely with authorities and municipalities, and driving projects forward in a structured and pragmatic way.
The role:
As Project Development Manager, you will manage a portfolio of battery energy storage (and related renewable) projects and lead them through all permitting and planning phases. You will act as the central point of contact for authorities, municipalities, and external advisors, ensuring approvals are progressed efficiently and projects remain on track.
Key responsibilities:
Independently manage a portfolio of BESS (and/or solar) projects from submission through to Ready-to-Build (RTB) status
Lead and actively drive all relevant permitting processes, including building permits and planning procedures (e.g. §35 privileged projects, zoning or development plan processes where required)
Serve as the main point of contact for municipalities, permitting authorities, and external planners, consultants, and experts
Prepare, submit, and actively track all permitting documentation
Respond to authority feedback, conditions, and requirements, ensuring timely and compliant implementation
Track milestones, deadlines, risks, and dependencies across multiple parallel projects
Identify permitting risks and bottlenecks early and develop pragmatic solutions
Represent projects confidently in meetings with authorities and municipalities when required
What the client is looking for:
Full ownership mentality for assigned projects, with a strong focus on delivery and implementation
Independent, proactive working style with the ability to manage core project development topics without close supervision
Strong stakeholder management skills and consistent follow-up with authorities and partners
Ability to manage and prioritise multiple projects in parallel
Clear, professional, and solution-oriented communication style
Structured, resilient, and results-driven approach to work
Confident external presence when representing projects with municipalities and authorities
Required qualifications:
Minimum 2 years of professional experience in project development within renewable energy
Practical experience navigating German permitting and approval processes
Exposure to battery energy storage systems (BESS) and/or utility-scale solar projects
Solid understanding of building permit procedures and working with authorities
Ability to independently drive projects forward and maintain momentum
Very good German language skills (written and spoken) for authority and municipal communication
Desirable experience:
Direct experience with zoning, land-use, or development plan procedures
End-to-end responsibility for projects through to Ready-to-Build status
Regular interaction with municipalities, permitting authorities, and external stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to streamline permitting processes and resolve bottlenecks efficiently
What’s on offer:
Permanent role within a growing renewable energy platform
High level of responsibility and project ownership
Hybrid working model and flexible working arrangements
Competitive salary package
Long-term development opportunities within a future-oriented sector