We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to join our team as the New Ventures Development Director. This key leadership role will be instrumental in driving the exploration, development, and execution of innovative pilots and programs. Our primary focus areas include deep decarbonization, distributed energy resources, core operations, mobility, and customer experience. In partnership with leaders across Southern Company, we develop and pilot solutions primarily from the startup and venture capital space, as well as with other strategic partners. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the energy transition, cutting edge technologies, identifying emerging market trends, and leading cross-functional teams to bring new ideas to fruition.
Education :
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field required. Master's degree is a plus.
Prior Experience :
- Must have a minimum of 7 years of experience in business development, innovation management, emerging energy solutions, project management, or related roles.
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Experience in the energy sector is highly desirable, particularly with demonstrated experience navigating an energy utility.
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Prior management experience is required.
How you will add value to our team:
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Lead and develop employees using an individualized approach, recognizing unique strengths and developmental areas to ensure a high-functioning team with sustained morale.
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Lead a team of seasoned business development principals responsible for identifying and developing pilots for emerging solutions, ensuring thorough testing before scaling.
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Engage with internal stakeholders, understanding their priorities and processes, and drive achievement through innovative partnerships, programs, and technologies.
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Sound judgement to determine those solutions that should be advanced and those that should be stopped. For those that should advance, develop the concept and ensure successful completion of the pilot and other innovative partnership opportunities.
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Effectively manage a complex workload, demonstrating composure under pressure while ensuring tasks are prioritized and executed efficiently.
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Engage with third parties, key customers, and external stakeholders to develop, structure, and execute partnerships that contribute to driving innovation.
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Perform due diligence for commercialization opportunities within Southern Company, evaluating new technologies and partners, including financial and viability assessments.
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Create compelling internal and external communications to effectively convey the value propositions of emerging solutions, pilots, and programs.
What our team needs for this role:
Leadership Experience:
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A dynamic leader, with the ability to lead the individual and lead a team.
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Demonstrated leadership in previous roles, with a preference for experience in energy utilities.
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Proven ability to lead and inspire teams, driving them towards common goals and fostering a culture of innovation.
Energy Industry Insight:
- A deep understanding of the energy industry transition and the evolving needs of customers, especially in the areas of sustainability and resiliency.
Strategic Partnership Development:
- Proven track record of developing successful partnerships with third parties and customers, showcasing the ability to identify and capitalize on mutually beneficial opportunities.
Customer and Partner Interaction:
- Experience working directly with customers and partners, including structuring and negotiating relationship frameworks that ensure long-term success.
Business Planning and Execution:
- Self-starter with strong analytical, business planning, and execution skills. Capable of taking ownership of projects and driving them to successful delivery.
Technology Innovation and Strategy:
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Enthusiasm for technology innovation, coupled with a passion for business transformation and strategy development.
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Ability to evaluate innovative solution's fit' for Southern's customers and seamlessly communicate that fit to internal and external stakeholders.
