Head of Investment

Overview The successful applicant will join the Octopus Australia team on its mission to accelerate Australia’s transition to a future powered by renewable energy. This role is based in Melbourne or Sydney. Responsibilities End-to-End Deal Execution: Originate, structure, negotiate, and close complex transactions across development and operating assets. Manage deal teams, maintain momentum under pressure, and drive successful commercial outcomes. Commercial & Risk Acumen: Assess investment risks, develop mitigation strategies, and support negotiations to implement mitigations. Apply sound commercial judgment in evolving scenarios. Debt Financing Expertise: Understand project finance structures; work with lenders and advisers to ensure bankability and optimize capital structures. Leadership Presence & Communication: Communicate clearly and present to Investment Committee and Board levels; articulate complex investment strategies to senior stakeholders. Strategic Industry Insight: Understand the Australian renewable energy landscape, regulatory frameworks, energy markets, and policy environment to identify opportunities and inform strategy. Team Leadership & Development: Lead and grow a high-performing investment team; actively mentor and develop team members and foster collaboration. Stakeholder Engagement & Network: Leverage relationships within the Australian renewable energy sector to unlock opportunities and strengthen Octopus Australia’s market position. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work across development, operations, legal, and finance to drive alignment and integrated decision-making throughout the investment lifecycle. Qualifications Minimum 15+ years of relevant experience in Australia in infrastructure or energy investment, across utilities, IPPs/developers, investment banking, private equity, or corporate finance divisions of top-tier firms. Demonstrated track record of leading complex, high-value renewable energy transactions across origination, structuring, execution, and asset management. Significant experience in leading teams, setting strategic direction, and influencing at executive and board levels. Professional qualifications such as CFA, CA, CPA, or an MBA are highly regarded but not essential. Must have the right to work in Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role. Core Competencies Strategic and commercial mindset with the ability to balance portfolio-level thinking with hands-on execution and ownership of investment decisions. Financial, commercial, and legal acumen, including project finance, transaction structuring, and risk allocation in renewable energy deals. Valuation, financial modelling, and risk analysis with the ability to challenge assumptions and drive value through negotiations. Exceptional communication and presentation skills to influence a wide range of stakeholders including investment committees, JV partners, banks, advisers, developers, and regulators. Proven leadership and people management skills with a track record of building and developing high-performing teams. Strong organizational and project management skills to manage multiple complex transactions in a fast-paced environment. Understanding of legal and contractual frameworks relevant to renewable energy projects, including acquisitions, offtake, and joint ventures. Comfortable operating in an entrepreneurial environment with flexibility, resilience, and hands-on problem-solving. Leadership Characteristics A self-starter mindset with initiative, drive, and tenacity to deliver exceptional outcomes with limited oversight. A growth-oriented leader who supports the development of others and fosters continuous improvement. Straightforward communicator who can distill complexity into clarity and give/receive feedback constructively. A curious, optimistic thinker who believes in the energy transition and wants to shape the future of investment in the sector. A strong sense of accountability to investors, focused on delivering financial performance and long-term value creation. What we offer A competitive salary package including bonus and medical insurance benefits Extra Annual Leave entitlement Flexible working Ongoing learning and career development opportunities Our Values At Octopus we focus on how we do things as well as what we do. Our values are being straightforward , helpful , and bold , guiding how we pursue our goals: Be Bold – We like people who make decisions quickly and are willing to change course if a better way emerges. Be Helpful – We value day-one mindset and remember that our customers are essential to the business. Be Straightforward – We prefer clear, respectful communication and open opinions. #J-18808-Ljbffr