Strategic Development Manager

Location

Rome - Italy

Mission

As Strategic Development Manager at Zelestra Italia, you will define and drive the strategic direction of the Business Development function in Italy. You will act as the critical bridge between the Business Development team, the Commercial function, and the Regulatory Affairs team — ensuring that development strategy is fully aligned with commercial targets, market positioning, and the evolving regulatory landscape. A core part of your mandate is the identification and development of new business models and emerging business areas: in particular, you will define Zelestra's strategic positioning in the data center segment and lead the go-to-market strategy to establish the company as a relevant player in this space. You will also drive cross-functional strategic initiatives and process improvement efforts across the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve the business development strategy for Italy, ensuring alignment with Zelestra's corporate objectives and the commercial roadmap.
• Act as the primary interface between the Business Development and Commercial functions, translating market dynamics and commercial priorities into actionable development strategies.
• Lead the annual strategic planning and budgeting process for the Italian development function, including target-setting, resource allocation, and performance tracking.
• Develop and monitor KPIs for the development function, providing structured reporting to senior management and the Investment Committee.
• Drive continuous market intelligence: monitor regulatory developments, competitive dynamics, technology trends, and energy market evolution in Italy.
• Define Zelestra's strategic positioning in the data center segment and lead the go-to-market strategy to establish the company as a relevant player in this space.
• Assess and develop the commercial and development framework for new business verticals, including innovative business models such as hybrid energy systems (e.g. co-located PV and BESS) and dedicated energy solutions for power-intensive industries.
• Lead or coordinate cross-functional strategic initiatives and process improvement efforts across the organisation.
• Support the evaluation and prioritisation of new business opportunities, providing structured analysis and investment rationale to senior leadership.
• Work closely with the Regulatory Affairs team to ensure that ongoing and anticipated regulatory changes are systematically integrated into the business development strategy — translating policy signals into concrete implications for the development pipeline and new business initiatives.
• Support extraordinary transactions, including strategic M&A operations — contributing to target identification, strategic rationale, and cross-functional coordination through the deal process.
• Support senior leadership in preparing strategic materials for internal governance (Investment Committee, Board-level presentations) and external stakeholders.

Job Requirements

Education

• Degree in Business Administration, Economics, Engineering, or a related field.
• MBA or advanced degree in Strategy, Energy, or Finance is a strong plus.
  
  

Professional Experience

• At least 7–10 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, with a strong background in business strategy, market development, or corporate development roles.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, market analysis, and go-to-market design in complex or regulated industries.
• In-depth knowledge of the Italian energy market, including regulatory frameworks, incentive mechanisms (e.g. FERX, Capacity Market, Energy Release, MACSE), and permitting dynamics.
• Prior exposure to the data center sector — whether through direct experience, advisory, or M&A — and familiarity with its dynamics, key players, and strategic drivers is considered a significant plus.
• Experience working across commercial, development, and finance functions in a matrix organisation.
• Prior exposure to innovative energy business models — such as hybrid systems, co-located assets, or dedicated supply for power-intensive sectors — is a significant advantage.
  
  

Technical Skills

• Strong command of financial and business modelling; ability to structure investment theses and scenario analyses.
• Solid understanding of renewable energy technologies (PV, BESS, wind) and their commercial and technical constraints.
• Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint. Familiarity with market databases and energy platforms is a plus.
• Fluent in Italian and English (C1 level — negotiation and presentation proficiency required).
  
  

Soft Skills

• Strategic thinker with a strong execution mindset: able to move seamlessly from vision to action.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage credibly at senior levels internally and externally.
• Entrepreneurial and intellectually curious: comfortable navigating ambiguity and shaping new initiatives in a fast-evolving market.
• Highly structured and analytical, with a proven ability to synthesise complex information into clear recommendations.
• Collaborative team player, capable of driving alignment across functions and managing multiple priorities simultaneously.

What we offer

Employment Terms

• Permanent Employment Contract
• National Collective Labour Agreement (CCNL): Italian National Collective Labour Agreement for Employees in the Electricity Sector
• Job Grade: In line with the applicable collective agreement
• Minimum Gross Annual Base Salary: € 62.800
• A higher compensation package may be considered based on the candidate's experience, distinctive skills, and the value they bring to the role. 
   

Benefits

• Private health insurance
• Meal vouchers
• Hybrid working policy - 9 remote working days per month 
   

Working Environment

• A strategic, high-impact role within Zelestra's ambitious growth journey.
• A dynamic, innovative, and merit-driven work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development within a fast-growing multinational company, working alongside a highly qualified and international team. 
   

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Zelestra, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and equal opportunities are promoted. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including individuals belonging to protected categories under Italian Law 68/99.

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