Job description
Formative Search is partnering with a leading global private equity firm specializing in infrastructure and energy investments to recruit a Construction Manager for their battery energy storage system (BESS) platform in Japan.This position will oversee the delivery of BESS projects in Japan from financial investment decision through construction to commercial operations. The successful candidate will coordinate between local Japanese resources and regional technical/commercial teams while managing relationships with key stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead BESS projects from financial investment decision through commissioning and handover to operations
- Collaborate with technical teams on grid connection applications and discussions with grid operators
- Develop comprehensive EPC tender documentation, including technical specifications and commercial terms
- Manage proposal evaluations, clarifications, and contractor selection recommendations
- Oversee procurement of ancillary systems (resource aggregation, communications, logistics)
- Coordinate permit applications and regulatory approvals
- Support the finance team in securing project financing and achieving financial close
- Manage EPC contractors and equipment suppliers during execution phase
- Control interface risks between multiple contractors and systems
- Ensure compliance with project finance requirements and conditions
- Track project schedule, budget, and resources according to the approved construction program
- Implement and enforce health and safety policies and standards
- Provide regular reporting to senior management and project partners
- Interface with external stakeholders, including METI, grid operators, and local communities
- Represent projects at industry events and in discussions with authorities
- Collaborate across functions to ensure all project requirements are met during development and construction
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required (engineering degree preferred)
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in the power industry
- At least 5 years of project management experience, preferably in energy storage or similar technologies
- Demonstrated experience negotiating with government agencies, utilities, EPC contractors, and equipment suppliers
- Strong understanding of technical, commercial, and regulatory aspects of energy projects in Japan
- Experience managing complex construction projects with multiple stakeholders
If you would like to apply for this position, please send your most recent CV to Lily@formativesearch.com.