Roll: Project Development Manager, Sweden

Reporting to: Head of Department, Sweden

Department: Downing Renewable Developments (DRD)

We appreciate all interest in Downing and applications received; however please note we will only be able to contact the most suitable applicants

About DRD

Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) is a 35-strong renewable development and delivery business. We identify suitable opportunities for renewable energy projects and undertake the associated processes for grid connection, land agreements and permits to obtain successfully developed projects. Following the development phase of the projects, the delivery is handled by our in-house team. Finally, the resulting assets are operated long-term by our asset managers and owned by our funds.

Our initial activities were focused in the UK, where we have a c. 6GW pipeline of opportunities in the solar, wind and battery sectors. Following the UK success, we initiated Swedish and Finnish development teams in 2023 to expand the project development activities to the Nordic region.

In Sweden, we are currently a team of four full-time employees and are expected to be a team of six before this year’s end. We also share the office with about 15 colleagues from other energy-related teams within Downing.

Role and responsibilities

Join us in advancing Downing’s renewable development business in Sweden. Here, your voice matters, and you’ll be part of shaping how we operate and evolve. We are looking for a Project Development Manager to join our growing team and lead the development of high-quality renewable energy projects. While the role is location-flexible, we’d prefer if you’re able to work from the office 2-3 times a week.

In particular, you will lead our development of solar PV projects in Sweden. Your responsibilities will include managing and supporting activities such as site feasibility assessments, grid connection applications, permitting processes, general design work, and preparing investment decisions. You’ll also collaborate with colleagues working on wind, storage, and hybrid projects – which is why a broad understanding of the renewable energy sector is important.

Ideally, you’ve led solar projects from early-stage to ready-to-build or have played a key part in doing so. We’re looking for someone with a keen sense for identifying technically and economically viable projects.

As a compact local team, we tailor additional tasks and areas of responsibility based on each team member’s experience and ambitions. Depending on your background, you may also be involved in PPA-negotiations, landowner communication, community engagement, biodiversity enhancements and/or procurement and supplier selection.

Success in this role comes from combining technical know-how and project management skills with a collaborative spirit and a practical approach to problem-solving.

Travel to our offices in Glasgow, London and Helinski will be required from time to time.

Key skills and experience

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• Minimum bachelor’s degree within Project Management / Engineering / Urban Planning / or other relevant education for the role
• Minimum 5 years relevant professional experience, of which minimum 3 years dedicated to solar project development and/or construction.
• An ability to translate technical detail into commercial impact
• Ability to anticipate project issues and propose creative solutions and balance several projects of varying size and maturity.
• Experience of managing project stakeholders, including managing and negotiating with suppliers of hardware and consultancy services alike.
• Some level of experience with technical software (such as AutoCAD, GIS or PVSyst)
• European driving license, type B.
• Fluency in both Swedish and English

Personal Profile

• Is passionate about what you do – always ready to roll up your sleeves.
• Is a true team player – we value openness, honesty, and a fun, hard-working culture.
• Is customer-oriented – approachable, friendly, professional, and diligent.
• Is assertive and execution-focused – you make things happen.
• Communicates clearly – able to explain complex topics in simple, relevant terms in both Swedish and English

Pay and benefits

For the successful candidate, we will put together an attractive reward package that will include:

• Competitive starting salary
• Discretionary bonus and other success based financial incentives
• Pension scheme
• Long-term disability insurance
• Work injury insurance
• Group life insurance
• Private medical insurance
• Wellness allowance
• Additional social perks

Further information

Downing’s values - Be bold and ambitious | Be straightforward | Support each other

Our values serve as a guide that shapes every aspect of Downing. They extend far beyond the conduct of our employees and encompass our products, services, and relationships with our investors and their advisers. By upholding these values, we firmly believe that we can navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Our commitment to these values ensures that we make a positive impact in everything we do, leaving a lasting and meaningful imprint on the world around us.

Diversity and inclusion

At Downing, we work hard to create a safe space for everyone: an environment for people to be themselves, and to be straightforward, honest and candid. Diversity is important to us, and we are passionate about creating an inclusive culture that supports and celebrates this. ‍We are committed to treating all employees and applicants fairly throughout our recruitment process and every aspect of employment, irrespective of background, disability or any other protected characteristic.

Reasonable adjustments

We will make reasonable adjustments within our recruitment process (and throughout employment) where needed. If you need any adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please do not hesitate to speak to the hiring manager or Downing’s People Team (people@downing.co.uk).

Privacy

To understand what information we collect about you, how we will use it and for what purpose, please read our privacy notice.