Director of Data Center Development

Job Specifications

Black Hills Energy is people powered and purpose driven. Our team uses the power of energy to improve life for over one million customers in 800+ communities across the West and Midwest. We seek talented, caring people who embody our core values and contribute to a culture of inclusion and growth. As an organization, we believe the best part of working on our team is our commitment to making tomorrow better than today-for our customers, communities and each other.

Position summary:

The Director of Data Center Development will drive the growth of the utility business by identifying and cultivating new data center clients while continuing to manage existing relationships and partnerships. This role involves developing strategic partnerships, understanding client needs, and promoting the utility's services to support data center growth opportunities. This role will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Black Hills Energy by developing strategic initiatives that align with our strategic vision while driving growth and enhancing our competitive position. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional relationship skills, and have a visionary mindset. This is a key role and will be a major contributor in shaping and executing the company's growth strategy.

Pay Range: $165,850 - $273,700 / Grade 23 (This posting includes the full pay range for this position. Pay is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity.)

Reporting Relationship: VP of Strategic Growth

Location: Rapid City, South Dakota or Cheyenne, Wyoming

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance is available based on individual circumstances! Details to be shared during the offer process.

Essential Functions:
* Develop and execute strategies for data center expansion and optimization to align with the company's growth goals. Collaborate with business units and functional leaders to identify and develop opportunities for data center load projects.
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including data center operators, industry partners, and regulatory bodies.
* Identify and target potential data center customers, developing strategies to attract and secure new business. Develop and implement strategic growth plans to expand the utility's customer base within the data center sector.
* Lead negotiations with potential data center customers to secure agreements and partnerships. Create compelling and innovative proposals and presentations to showcase the utility's services and value proposition.
* Monitor and analyze market trends to identify new opportunities and stay ahead of industry developments.
* Ensure all business development activities comply with industry standards and regulations. Identify and mitigate risks associated with client acquisition and contract negotiations. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory requirements affecting data center operations and utility services. Understand and navigate utility operations, tariffs, legislative, and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and optimize project outcomes.
* Serve as one of the spokesperson for the company by representing the company in its relationships with partners and in the business and financial communities.
* Prepare and present reports, proposals, and updates to senior management and other stakeholders.
* Provide strategic guidance and support to business units and functional leaders throughout the project lifecycle.

Additional Responsibilities:
* Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment with overall business objectives. Work closely with internal teams (e.g., regulatory, finance, generation, operations, transmission, etc.) to ensure seamless service delivery and client satisfaction.
* Other duties as assigned.

What Is Required:
* Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
* A minimum of 10 years' experience in business development, account management, sales, or a related role working for a utility or data center organization is required.
* A minimum of 3 years' of leadership experience is required.
* Proven track record of acquiring and managing client relationships.
* Strong understanding of the data center industry and its operational needs, and knowledge of utility services and their application in data center operations.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively present proposals and interact with clients.
* Ability to develop and execute strategic growth plans. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and successful completion.
* Strong problem-solving abilities to address client needs and overcome challenges. Flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and client requirements.
* Ability to build and maintain a network of industry contacts and strategic partners.
* Demonstrated strength in project management, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration, consistently driving balanced, actionable decisions that align with strategic goals.
* This position requires driving responsibilities. You must hold and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record that meets company and insurer standards.
* This role will be required to travel up to 25% of the time.

What Is Desired:
* Comprehensive knowledge of utility services, including power supply, energy efficiency, and sustainability practices.
* Familiarity with industry regulations and standards affecting data center operations and utility services.

This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply.

About our Company: We are a customer, growth and safety focused utility company that is dedicated to our communities. We improve life with energy as an energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture fuels unique perspectives, opening doors to new insights and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 3000 employees and serve 1.3 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas).

Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package! Annual discretionary bonuses, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off benefits, including paid holidays and parental leave, company paid life insurance and disability benefits (short and long term), an employee assistance program and well-being benefits, and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check. If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the Black Hills Energy recruiting team at jobs@blackhillscorp.com.

Black Hills Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran. If you require reasonable accommodation, please visit careers.blackhillsenergy.com for more information.