Head of Development

Taylor Hopkinson is supporting a leading international renewable energy platform in the identification of a Head of Development to lead and scale its utility-scale pipeline across Italy.

The role is based in Rome and will be responsible for driving end-to-end development activities in Solar, Onshore Wind, and BESS.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full development lifecycle of utility-scale renewable energy projects (Solar, Onshore Wind, BESS) across Italy
• Define and execute the national development strategy in alignment with broader European expansion plans
• Oversee permitting processes, environmental assessments, and grid connection applications
• Manage relationships with TSOs, DSOs, municipalities, regulatory bodies, and key external stakeholders
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing development team in Italy
• Coordinate with internal investment, engineering, legal, and finance teams to ensure project bankability
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and auction mechanisms to optimise project positioning
• Ensure projects meet internal investment criteria, risk frameworks, and ESG standards
• Support M&A activities, including due diligence of development-stage assets and platforms

Candidate Profile

• Proven track record in utility-scale renewable energy development (Solar, Wind, and/or BESS) in Italy
• Strong understanding of Italian permitting processes, grid connection frameworks, and regulatory environment
• Experience leading or scaling development teams in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
• Solid network within the Italian renewable energy ecosystem (authorities, consultants, land agents, utilities)
• Commercial mindset with strong ability to balance technical, legal, and financial considerations
• Fluent in Italian and English
• Demonstrated ability to operate both strategically and hands-on in project development
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills