Senior Manager - (Must be in Chicagoland area)

Energy Solutions•Chicago, IL

7d•Remote

About The Position

Energy Solutions is seeking a Senior Manager to lead the planning, administration, and performance of major energy efficiency programs. The role sets strategic direction and drives operational and financial performance for a defined book of business, while advancing program excellence and sustained business growth. The Senior Manager develops staff and organizational capabilities, establishes and evolves implementation standards, shapes budgeting practices, and works across functions to develop energy-savings forecasts. They partner with senior leadership on program planning and delivery frameworks, oversee contract management, maintain QA/QC standards, and drive continuous improvement. Candidates should be located in the Chicago/Midwest area, preferably with a strong understanding of the region’s business landscape. Energy Solutions is a predominantly remote workforce with offices in six locations. Employees residing within 40 miles of an office (except New York) are assigned to that office, though in-office attendance requirements may vary by team. Applications are not currently accepted from candidates residing in Delaware, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, or North Dakota. A background check is required; a drug screen and authorization to work in the U.S. indefinitely are preconditions of employment. Use of AI tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews is prohibited.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Sustainability, Economics, Business Administration, or Public Policy, or a related discipline.
Ten or more years of progressively responsible experience leading and managing complex programs, solution areas, or cross-functional initiatives within energy efficiency, utilities, sustainability, or a related regulated industry.
Five or more years of experience leading teams, initiatives, or programs with accountability for delivery outcomes, stakeholder alignment, and performance.
Deep understanding of Demand Side Management energy-efficiency program design, delivery models, and regulatory frameworks, including savings, cost-effectiveness, and compliance targets.
Understanding of market transformation principles and how program strategies influence long-term technology adoption and market behavior.
Understanding of midstream program design and delivery, including engagement with distributors, manufacturers, and retailers to influence stocking practices and adoption of efficient products.
Demonstrated ability to lead and advance program management and service delivery practices in complex program environments.
Ability to manage financial performance, including budgets, forecasts, and profitability within a defined solution area.
Ability to manage client relationships and align on program goals, delivery expectations, and performance outcomes.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly and influence stakeholders at multiple levels.
Ability to assess risks, make strategic decisions, and guide execution in complex and ambiguous situations.
Strong analytical skills to interpret data, market trends, and performance results and inform strategy and operational decisions.
Experience developing executive-level presentations, client-facing deliverables, and performance dashboards.
Ability to anticipate risks, evaluate trade-offs, and recommend solutions in high-impact scenarios.
Strong stakeholder management skills, including influencing without authority and sustaining productive client relationships.

Responsibilities

Establish and evolve implementation frameworks, operating procedures, and quality standards to support scalable, repeatable program success.
Partner with Directors and cross-functional leaders to integrate practice-level priorities and coordinate execution across teams.
Design and implement program-level operational strategies to improve resource allocation, delivery efficiency, and execution quality.
Analyze program performance trends, market conditions, and risks to inform strategic adjustments and continuous improvement.
Identify opportunities to enhance program capabilities and service offerings and increase the market impact of energy efficiency initiatives.
Develop and review cost estimates, staffing plans, and delivery timelines for client engagements and proposals.
Partner with Directors and Finance to forecast, monitor, and improve profitability across the solution area.
Lead contract management to ensure program budgets, performance targets, and savings goals are met.
Define roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations, and hold staff accountable for outcomes.
Develop and mentor staff and Project Managers through coaching, knowledge transfer, and structured performance feedback.
Build program capability by coaching teams, embedding best practices, and reinforcing operational standards.
Develop and manage strategic client relationships in the defined region and support long-term partnership success.
Advise clients on program performance, risks, opportunities, and strategic direction.
Lead or contribute to business development efforts, including proposals, scopes of work, and client presentations.
Identify and advance growth opportunities in collaboration with the Senior Director, who retains final contracting authority.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, contractual obligations, and internal policies across programs.
Monitor program performance using KPIs, budgets, and delivery metrics to ensure quality and timeliness.
Design and implement risk mitigation strategies and drive continuous improvement across program operations.
Manage subcontractors and delivery partners to align with program requirements, budgets, and performance goals.