Talent.com
Head of Investment - Octopus Australia

Head of Investment - Octopus Australia

Octopus AustraliaCity of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
7 days ago
Job description

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

    Create a job alert for this search

    Investment Australia • City of Melbourne, VIC, Australia