About the job CEO
Role Purpose : The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will be responsible for leading and driving the overall strategic direction, operational performance, and sustainable growth of Solar in the South African market.The CEO will work closely with the Board of Directors to implement the company's strategic objectives while ensuring operational excellence across all divisions, including engineering, project execution, commercial operations, finance, human capital, and health & safety.This role requires a highly experienced leader with deep expertise in solar energy and engineering-led project environments, capable of scaling operations, strengthening governance, and building strong client relationships at executive level.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership
- Develop and execute the company's long-term growth strategy aligned with Board directives.
- Drive expansion and market positioning within the South African renewable energy and solar sector.
- Identify new business opportunities, partnerships, and strategic initiatives to accelerate company growth.
- Ensure the organisation remains competitive within the evolving renewable energy landscape.
Operational Excellence
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the business through direct leadership of six executive heads.
- Ensure efficient delivery of solar engineering and project execution across all operations.
- Establish performance metrics, operational frameworks, and accountability structures across departments.
- Ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and operational compliance.
Executive Leadership & Team Management
- Lead and develop the executive leadership team, ensuring alignment across all departments.
- Foster a high-performance culture focused on innovation, accountability, and operational efficiency.
- Provide strategic oversight and guidance to departmental leaders.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Represent Impower Solar at an executive level with key clients, investors, and strategic partners.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with major commercial and industrial clients.
- Position the organisation as a trusted leader within the renewable energy and solar industry.
Governance & Board Engagement
- Report directly to the Board of Directors on company performance, growth strategy, and risk management.
- Prepare and present Board reports, strategic updates, and financial performance insights.
- Ensure strong corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and ethical business practices.
Financial & Commercial Oversight
- Drive revenue growth, profitability, and financial sustainability.
- Work closely with the Head of Finance to ensure financial performance targets are achieved.
- Oversee commercial strategy including large project bids, partnerships, and contract negotiations.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across all projects.
- Promote a strong safety culture across engineering and project teams.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Revenue growth and profitability
- Expansion of market share in the South African solar sector
- Successful execution of large-scale solar engineering projects
- Operational efficiency and project delivery timelines
- Client satisfaction and retention
- Leadership development and organisational performance
Minimum RequirementsEducation
- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Energy Engineering or similar)
- MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification (highly advantageous)
- Solar or renewable energy certifications (advantageous)
Experience
- Minimum 5+ years' experience at CEO, Managing Director, or Executive Leadership level within the renewable energy, solar, or engineering project environment.
- Proven track record of scaling and growing a renewable energy or engineering-driven business.
- Extensive experience in solar EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) or large-scale renewable energy project environments.
- Strong commercial and operational leadership experience.
Key CompetenciesLeadership & Strategy
- Visionary leadership
- Strategic planning and execution
- Business growth and market expansion
Technical & Industry Expertise
- Strong solar energy and engineering knowledge
- Understanding of renewable energy market dynamics
- Project delivery and operational oversight
Commercial & Financial Acumen
- Contract negotiation
- Financial strategy and performance management
- Business development
Stakeholder Management
- Executive client engagement
- Board-level communication
- Investor and partner relations
Operational Excellence
- Performance management
- Risk management
- Governance and compliance