Director, Research and Analytics

Breakthrough Energy is a network of entities and initiatives, including investment funds, nonprofit and philanthropic programs, linked by a common commitment to scale the technologies we need to achieve a path to net-zero emissions by 2050. We are encouraging the development of new net-zero energy technologies, focused on accelerating innovation from lab to market, solving planning barriers to grid solutions, and bringing together governments, research institutions, private companies, and investors to expand and enhance clean-energy investment. The GRIDS program within Breakthrough is focused on improving and accelerating electric system planning and reducing the time to investment by tackling processes and tools for electric system design, building quality fundamental data inputs, and consistent and focused decision-making tools to understand trade-offs and options.

Overview
Breakthrough Energy seeks a dynamic and focused
Director, Research and Analytics
to join our GRIDS program. In this role, the Director will play a crucial part in supporting the data and analytical needs of the GRIDS program. The primary focus areas will be developing, executing and maintaining a strategic plan to identify and secure high-quality necessary data for comprehensive electric system modeling in an open and transparent manner. Additionally, the leader will facilitate and provide other research, data and analytics for GRID program decision making. This includes establishing and conducting necessary quality control and holding quality assurance accountability for data that is made externally available. The ideal candidate will possess an organized and technical mindset and a nimble analytical mind. They should also be comfortable assessing high-level program issues, identifying solutions in their expertise while executing tactical activities. This role reports to the Vice President, Head of GRIDS.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic plan to identify, procure, maintain and organize data required for integrated electric grid modeling and workflows.
• Partner closely with VP, GRIDS as well as other program leaders to execute objectives and achieve outcomes of the collective program team.
• Partner closely with GRIDS cyber expertise to ensure data is secure and team members are following data protocols and procedures, as necessary.
• Lead research initiatives to drive business insights and strategic decision-making.
• Develop and implement data analytics frameworks and methodologies including creation and maintenance of a quality assurance and quality control process for data made available externally or utilized internally for analytics.
• Manage a team (internal or external) of analysts and researchers, ensuring high-quality output.
• Present insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in analytics.

Desired Qualifications And Skills

• Degree in Economics, Data Science, Business Analytics, Statistics, or a related field or similar degree desired. Master's preferred.
• Preference given to candidates with a relevant degree, although equivalent practical experience and demonstrated expertise will also be considered.
• Proven experience in research and analytics roles as well as project management.
• Strong proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SQL).
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.
• Leadership experience of at least 3 years preferred.
• Exhibit exceptional problem-solving skills, consistently finding creative and forward-looking solutions to complex challenges.
• Understanding of or exposure to electric system operations or grid modeling a plus.
• Thrive in collaborative environments, actively participating and contributing to projects at all levels. Your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and leverage diverse perspectives will be instrumental to success.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
• Possess proficiency in utilizing the Microsoft suite of tools, including but not limited to PowerPoint, Outlook, Word, OneNote, Excel, and SharePoint, to perform job responsibilities effectively and efficiently.
• Candidates must be based in a state where Breakthrough Energy is registered or already has an established presence.

The starting salary range for this position is $180,000 to $210,000 annually. Salary offers within this range will vary depending on several factors, including, but not limited to, education, experience, skills, relevant certifications, and other qualifications. Employees may also be eligible for bonuses based on individual performance.

In addition to compensation, we offer a comprehensive benefits package. Our package includes paid medical, dental, vision, life, disability insurance, annual leave, sick leave, and a 401(k) program for eligible employees. Our commitment to the well-being and support of our team members is reflected in the comprehensive coverage of our offers.

Breakthrough Energy celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. Breakthrough Energy is an equal opportunity employer. BE does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Breakthrough Energy will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and/or receive other benefits and privileges of employment.