Director, Commercial Energy
About the role
Overview The Director, Commercial Energy is responsible for driving strategic leadership and business growth through the expansion of utility-sponsored energy efficiency, electrification, and demand-side management (DSM) programs. This role develops new program opportunities and oversees a dynamic suite of residential, commercial, and public sector initiatives, primarily in Virginia, ensuring alignment with regulatory frameworks, client expectations, and organizational performance goals. The ideal candidate demonstrates a proven ability to develop new business relationships as well as cultivate new opportunities with existing partners, lead cross-functional teams, manage a team of program managers, scale program impact, and deliver measurable results that support equitable clean energy transitions. Location: Reston, VA; Columbia, MD; Hybrid.
Responsibilities
- Develop new program partnerships in Virginia by leveraging relationships with utilities and other energy efficiency partners.
- Identify strategic collaborations with local industry partners to bring new program concepts to market.
- Lead cross-functional teams of program managers, engineers, outreach, marketing, and IT professionals to deliver high-impact, customer-centric energy programs.
- Oversee program design, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring compliance with technical specifications, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.
- Manage portfolio-level financials, forecasts, KPIs, and reporting; ensure timely billing, data quality, and regulatory deliverables.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with utility clients, regulators, and community stakeholders to align program strategies with customer and policy goals.
- Guide inclusive, collaborative teams and support staff development through mentorship, performance management, and strategic direction.
- Drive innovation by identifying emerging technologies, market trends, and new program opportunities.
- Represent the organization in regulatory proceedings, stakeholder working groups, and industry conferences.
- Lead or support business development efforts including proposal development, pricing strategy, and contract negotiations.
- Drive client growth strategy and direct capture efforts to ensure success in portfolio recompetes.
- Promote a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement across all program areas.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Energy Resources, Engineering, Policy, Business, or a related field
- 10+ years of experience in energy efficiency, electrification, or DSM programs
- 6+ years of experience managing cross-functional teams, client portfolios, and teams of program/project managers
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed
- Must be willing to travel up to 25% locally across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a related field
- Familiarity with residential and commercial electric and gas energy efficiency measures, load management, and distributed energy resources
- Professional certifications such as PMP, CEM, or LEED AP
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI)
- Demonstrated success in business development, client engagement, and contract administration
Skills
- Strategic leadership and portfolio oversight, including financial management and regulatory compliance
- Deep understanding of energy efficiency, electrification, and DSM program frameworks
- Client relationship development and stakeholder engagement
- Team building, mentorship, and performance management
- Energy efficiency program innovation and market trend analysis
- Business development and contract negotiation
- Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities with a willingness to adapt to changing client goals and regulatory requirements
- Excellent communication, writing, and presentation skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI)
- Ability to travel and represent the organization externally
Pay
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract