Who we are: 

In New Ventures, we believe that bold creativity, emerging technologies, and partnerships are critical to meet customer’s evolving energy needs. With a strong focus on innovation and a dedication to providing reliable and clean energy solutions, we are at the forefront of shaping the energy landscape. 

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to join our team as the Director of Business Development and Innovation in New Ventures. This key leadership role is primarily external facing and focuses on managing our investment and influence with Energy Impact Partners (EIP) and other investments in venture capital. Additionally, this position will lead efforts in new partnership development in the innovation ecosystem as well as developing frameworks for transformational business impact. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the energy transition and innovation, is energized by new connections, and is able to develop strategies to drive impact. 

Thank you for taking the time to complete the application process. Incomplete applications may regrettably be excluded from the review process. 

Education: 

Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or a related field required

Prior Experience: 

Minimum of 8 years of previous experience in business development, innovation management, emerging energy solutions, project management, or related roles.  Previous experience in leading and managing a team as well as working cross functionally. Knowledge or experience with startups/as an entrepreneur, venture capital, due diligence, sourcing solutions, or deal structuring, capital markets, or M&A background is highly desirable. Experience in the energy sector is highly desirable, particularly with demonstrated experience navigating an energy utility.

How you will add value to our team:

Lead and develop employees using an individualized approach, recognizing unique strengths and developmental areas to ensure a high-functioning team with sustained morale. Represent Southern Company in external forums and nationwide industry events, including conferences and networking events as a participant or panelist as needed.  Closely engage and influence across our venture capital investments, direct investments, big tech and other industry leaders. Leverage these partnerships to identify innovative insights and solutions for our customers and our business.  Identify and develop executable strategic frameworks to transform our business to better serve our customers, informed by market trends and business needs. Demonstrate sound judgement to discern those solutions that should be advanced and those that should be stopped.  Effectively manage a complex workload, demonstrating composure under pressure while ensuring tasks are prioritized and executed efficiently.

What our team needs for this role:

A dynamic leader, with the ability to lead the individual and lead a team. Possess a proven ability to lead and inspire teams, driving them towards common goals and fostering a culture of innovation. A strong understanding of the energy transition and the evolving needs of customers, especially in the areas of emerging energy solutions. Excellent interpersonal skills, passionate connector, and high influence. Someone who understands relationships matter and connections accelerate impact. Must be willing to make new connections and nurture existing relationships.  Proven track record of developing successful partnerships with third parties and customers, showcasing the ability to identify and advance mutually beneficial opportunities. Self-starter with strong analytical, business planning, and execution skills. Capable of taking ownership of projects and driving them to successful delivery. A continuous and curious learner, with high enthusiasm for innovation and a passion for business transformation and strategy development. Ability to evaluate innovative solution’s ‘fit’ for Southern’s customers and seamlessly communicate that fit to internal and external stakeholders. Demonstrated sound judgment, showcasing the ability to understand the priority of projects and their impact on organizational goals. Strong communication skills across written, oral, and visual platforms. Proven ability to build consensus around abstract and complex concepts. Ability to take full ownership of projects, ensuring they are led to successful delivery within established timelines. Ability to travel 50-75% of the time.