Head of Construction

Our client is a nationwide multi-utility group operating across the Energy and Environmental sectors , comprising over 15 operational subsidiaries, with two main offices in northern Italy, 1,700 employees and nearly €2 billion in annual revenue.
The Group’s activities span the entire energy and environmental value chain, including power and gas production and distribution, cogeneration, district heating, integrated water services, waste management, public lighting, and internet connectivity. In addition, the Group actively promotes energy efficiency and electric mobility solutions.

This will enable a shift towards a more integrated, process-driven operating model, in order to support portfolio expansion, manage increasingly complex projects and deliver the development goals outlined in the Group’s industrial plan.
Within this context, the new Head of Construction (HoC) will be fully responsible for the delivery of renewable energy plants , overseeing the entire construction lifecycle, from planning and construction to commissioning and the Commercial Operation Date (COD).
This role is pivotal in strengthening governance over this area of strategic growth. The HoC will also manage relationships with industrial and financial partners to ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget, while meeting performance, profitability, quality, HSE standards and regulatory requirements. The HoC will report directly to the CEO of the Renewable business.

Pre-Construction & Planning
Critically review projects under development to identify technical, economic, execution risks and collaborating with Business Development, Planning and Holding functions during permitting and development phases.
Define procurement strategies and construction execution plans to develop reliable budgets, cost estimates and schedules.

Construction Execution & Site Management
Coordinate and oversee all construction activities, including logistics, mechanical and electrical installation, monitoring progress against schedule, costs, and quality standards.
Lead and supervise Project Managers and Site Managers, coordinate EPC contractors, suppliers, subcontractors, and site teams.
Collaborate with designers, construction supervision, inspectors, testing and commissioning parties and external technical advisors.
Manage design changes, variations, and permitting issues during construction.

HSE & Regulatory Compliance
Work closely with the Company HSE Manager (RSPP equivalent) to identify and mitigate construction-related risks.
Verify the correct implementation of internal procedures and site-specific HSE plans.
Monitoring, Reporting & Cost Control

Monitor construction progress and prepare periodic management reports.
Proactively identify deviations from schedule or budget and define recovery plans where required.

Commissioning & Handover
Coordinate all pre-commissioning and commissioning activities to ensure proper plant functionality; define and manage the commissioning plan, including mechanical, electrical, functional, and performance testing.
Supervise on-site testing and acceptance , including coordination with grid operators and authorities.
Manage relationships with grid operators and regulatory bodies to obtain grid connection, energization, and parallel operation approvals.
Ensure full and compliant technical and contractual documentation is completed and archived.
Coordinate the handover to the Operations & Management team, ensuring:
Availability of as-built drawings and operating manuals Issuance of test and acceptance certificates
Transfer of permits, warranties, and contracts
Training support for O&M teams, where required

Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or Industrial) or related fields; a postgraduate degree or master’s in project management, Energy or Construction Management would represent a plus, as well as an MBA.
At least 10+ years of experience managing complex construction projects in the Energy sector, preferably in Renewables (wind and solar in particular).
In-depth knowledge of PMO processes, with consistent track record in leading Site Managers, coordinating EPC contractors, suppliers, and subcontractors; strong experience in budget management, cost control, and executive reporting.
Hands-on experience in permitting, construction, commissioning, performance testing , including coordination with grid operators, and handover of Energy plants.
Ability to assess technical, economic, and operational risks , with solid understanding of HSE, environmental, and regulatory compliance requirement

Capable of managing multidisciplinary teams and large contractors, with the ability to bring all stakeholders involved together, build trust and persuade in decision-making processes, and to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely. Strong communication and reporting skills also at executive level.
Fluency in English