Head of Development

RWE Renewables Australia Pty Ltd. To start as soon as possible, full time, permanent Functional area: Project Development About The Role As Head of Development, you will lead RWE Australia’s development function across onshore wind, solar PV and BESS. Working with the CEO, CFO and Australia Management Team, you will translate growth ambitions into a competitive medium- to long-term portfolio, providing optionality and a sustainable flow of projects to final investment decision (FID). You will build an inclusive, high-performing team and embed value through commercial discipline, clear accountability and collaboration. Your Tasks Shape and execute the Australian development and origination strategy with the CEO and CFO, building a medium- to long-term portfolio with optionality across technologies, locations and project stages, capable of bringing ~500 MW of new projects to FID each year.Lead portfolio prioritisation, merit-order reviews and Development Gates, directing resources towards the strongest opportunities and adapting investment recommendations to project economics, grid access, planning risks and market conditions.Lead and develop the Development team, setting clear responsibilities, delegated authority and performance expectations. Build capability and succession through coaching, feedback and an inclusive culture of ownership and constructive challenge.Own development budgets, schedules and risk management, ensuring disciplined delivery against agreed milestones. Use portfolio data and fit-for-purpose digital tools to improve forecasting, transparency and development efficiency.Coordinate robust Gate papers and investment recommendations for the RWE OPEA Board with the CEO and CFO, aligning the assumption book and cross-functional inputs to support timely, value-driven decisions.Build trusted relationships with communities, landholders, customers, government, AEMO and network service providers. Lead critical negotiations and escalations, balancing stakeholder needs with project viability and long-term business value.Ensure projects are ready for construction at FID, with clear handover requirements and aligned responsibilities. Work with Engineering, Construction and other functions to resolve development matters and support delivery to commercial operation (COD). Your Profile At least 15 years’ renewable energy development experience, with a strong track record in onshore wind and/or solar PV and experience in BESS development or integration, progressing projects to investment decision and execution.Proven ability to lead a development portfolio and origination strategy, balancing growth, optionality, resource allocation and risk to deliver a sustained pipeline of commercially attractive projects.Strong people leadership, including team structure, workforce planning and performance management. Able to empower others, develop future leaders and maintain focus and resilience through change and uncertainty.Deep understanding of Australian planning and development approvals, the National Electricity Rules and grid connection processes, supported by sound awareness of local geography, policy and community dynamics.Strong commercial judgement and understanding of renewable energy and storage economics, with experience in negotiation, development budgets, schedules and risk management. Able to assess emerging technologies and challenge assumptions constructively.Experience operating within a multinational business, navigating investment approvals and governance, and translating complex project issues into clear recommendations for senior decision-makers.Excellent communication and stakeholder skills, with the ability to build trust across diverse communities and professional backgrounds, influence without direct authority and collaborate across functions throughout the project lifecycle.A leadership approach aligned with Powering Values: taking ownership, delivering business impact, putting safety first and remaining open to feedback. Commitment to continuous improvement and effective use of data, digital tools and business systems. Qualifications And Working Arrangements Tertiary qualifications in engineering, town and regional planning, or environmental planning are preferred. A current Australian driver licence and willingness to travel regularly within Australia and internationally are required.This position is office-based in Melbourne, with regular travel to other RWE offices, project sites and field locations.Applicants must be legally authorised to work in Australia. RWE Renewables Australia Pty Ltd is unable to sponsor, or take over sponsorship of, employment visas at this time. Your Benefits We’re committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where our people can thrive, grow their careers and feel valued. Our benefits are designed to support you both professionally and personally, including: Hybrid and flexible working arrangements, as an accredited Family Friendly Workplace, supporting a healthy balance between work and life. Up to 26 weeks paid parental leave, plus additional paid leave for neonatal care, pregnancy loss, and fertility treatment.Opportunities for professional development and career growth, including professional memberships, learning and development, conferences, and study assistance.A range of health, wellbeing, and financial benefits, including 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, private health insurance discounts, salary packaging, and novated leasing. Apply with just a few clicks: ad code 93674, application period: 15/10/2026 Any questions? Contact HR: Jacinta Scarfone, ivan.dsilva@rwe.com We look forward to meeting you. Of course, you can find us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Xing, too. We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, age, sexual orientation, and identity. #inclusionmatters RWE Renewables Europe & Australia is a leading player in the renewable energy sector with over 30 years of experience. We currently operate onshore wind farms, solar plants and battery storage systems with around 5 gigawatts of installed capacity in our core markets in Europe and Australia. Supported by a workforce of around 2,000 employees, we continue to expand our renewable generation capacity in a value-accretive way. Our expertise spans the entire project lifecycle: we develop, plan, finance, build and operate our projects. With a strong project pipeline, we are working with communities to create a long-term value for everyone, today and for the future.