Senior Manager (Hybrid - Chicago)

Energy Solutions•Chicago, IL

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

Energy Solutions is seeking a Senior Manager to lead the planning, administration, and performance of major Energy Efficiency programs. This role sets strategic direction and drives operational and financial performance for a defined book of business, with accountability for advancing both program excellence and sustained business growth within their domain. In addition to program and client oversight, the Senior Manager builds and scales organizational capability by developing staff and establishing and evolving implementation standards. This role shapes budgeting practices for energy efficiency programs and works cross-functionally to develop accurate energy-savings forecasts. The Senior Manager partners closely with senior leadership to guide program planning, strengthen delivery frameworks, and ensure high-quality execution across teams. They oversee contract management, maintain strong QA/QC standards, and drive continuous improvement to enhance program performance and operational effectiveness. We are seeking candidates located in the Chicago/Midwest area, preferably with a strong understanding of the region's business landscape.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Sustainability, Economics, Business Administration, 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 how programs achieve savings, cost-effectiveness, and compliance targets.
Understanding of market transformation principles and how program strategies influence long-term shifts in technology adoption and market behavior
Understanding of midstream program design and delivery, including engagement with distributors, manufacturers, and retailers to influence stocking practices and drive adoption of efficient products
Demonstrated ability to lead and advance program management, and service delivery practices across complex program environments
Proven capability to manage financial performance, including overseeing budgets, forecasting outcomes, and driving profitability within a defined solution area
Manage client relationships to ensure alignment on program goals, delivery expectations, and performance outcomes
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with 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 with the ability to interpret data, market trends, and performance results to inform strategy and operational decisions
Experience developing executive-level presentations, client-facing deliverables, and performance dashboards
Demonstrated strength in anticipating risks, evaluating trade-offs, and recommending solutions in high-impact scenarios
Strong stakeholder management capability, with the ability to influence without authority and sustain productive client relationships
Manage subcontractors and delivery partners to ensure alignment with program requirements, budgets, and performance goals

Nice To Haves

Candidates located in the Chicago/Midwest area, preferably with a strong understanding of the region's business landscape.

Responsibilities

Establish and evolve implementation frameworks, operating procedures, and quality standards to enable scalable and repeatable program success
Influence and integrate practice-level priorities by partnering with Directors and cross-functional leaders to ensure coordinated execution across teams
Design and implement program-level operational strategies to improve resource allocation, delivery efficiency, and overall execution quality
Analyze and interpret program performance trends, market conditions, and risks to inform strategic adjustments, strengthen delivery and continuous improvement
Identify and advance opportunities to enhance program capabilities, expand service offerings, enhance capabilities, and increase market impact and effectiveness of energy efficiency initiatives
Develop and review cost estimates, staffing plans, and delivery timelines for client engagements and proposal efforts
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 and enforce roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations, holding staff accountable for outcomes
Develop and mentor staff and Project Managers through coaching, knowledge transfer, and structured performance feedback
Build and scale – Develop program capability by coaching teams, embedding best practices, and reinforcing operational standards that improve delivery effectiveness
Develop and manage strategic client relationships within the defined region area, ensuring long-term partnership success
Engage and advise clients on program performance, risks, opportunities, and strategic direction
Drive business development efforts by leading or contributing to proposals, scopes of work, and client presentations
Identify and progress growth opportunities, collaborating with Senior Director who retain final contracting authority
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, contractual obligations, and internal policies across all programs
Monitor and evaluate 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