Head of Construction

The Client: 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. Currently, the Group is experiencing significant growth , driven by both organic expansion and potential external acquisitions. To support this journey, it is also undergoing a transformation programme aimed at evolving from a centralized, vertical structure to a more synergistic, business-oriented model, positioning itself as a leading player in the development of sustainable, future-ready energy solutions. Position – The role: As part of this transformation, the Group is implementing a structured program to simplify and rationalize its Renewable Energy business. 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. Position – Specific responsibilities: 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. Identify optimization opportunities and define appropriate technical and contractual safeguards. 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. Ensure full compliance with occupational H&S, environmental, and technical regulations . Verify the correct implementation of internal procedures and site-specific HSE plans. Monitoring, Reporting & Cost Control Monitor construction progress and prepare periodic management reports. Review and approve Statements of Work Progress and authorize payments based on contractual milestones. 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 Requirements: 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 A result-oriented leadership demonstrating hands-on experience and sense of urgency, together with business sense and drive for results. Capable of taking decisions in structured environments delivering results on time, within budget, and meeting performance targets. Excellent problem-solving capabilities. Strong communication and influencing skills : 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. Strong awareness and alignment to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion topics. Fluency in English Location in Northern Italy ONLY CANDIDATES WHO MEET ALL THE REQUIREMENTS SHARED WITH THE CLIENT WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR FURTHER CONTACT