How to apply for Director of Business Development

About Canadian Solar (North America)

Canadian Solar is a global leader in solar technology, having delivered 55 GW of solar modules worldwide and operating across multiple subsidiaries including e-Storage, Recurrent Energy, MSS, and CSI Solar. Founded in 2001, the company is vertically integrated, from manufacturing solar panels and inverters to developing utility-scale solar projects and energy storage solutions. Working here means contributing to a cleaner planet while being part of a rapidly growing industry with a strong commitment to employee growth and work-life balance.

About the role

As Director of Business Development for North America, you will be responsible for driving growth across Canadian Solar's diverse portfolio, including solar modules, inverters, and energy storage systems. This remote role involves identifying new business opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and expanding market presence in the U.S. You will play a key role in advancing the company's mission to bring solar-powered electricity to millions while navigating the complexities of a booming renewable energy industry.

A typical day

A typical day might involve meeting with potential customers or partners to discuss upcoming projects, analyzing market data to identify new opportunities, and collaborating with internal teams (e.g., sales, engineering, legal) to develop proposals. You could also be negotiating contract terms, preparing presentations for senior leadership, or traveling to industry conferences and client sites. The role is dynamic and requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution.

Who Canadian Solar (North America) is looking for

• Proven track record in business development within the renewable energy sector, specifically solar or energy storage, with at least 8-10 years of experience.
• Strong network and existing relationships with utilities, independent power producers (IPPs), EPCs, and other key stakeholders in the North American solar market.
• Experience negotiating and closing complex, high-value contracts (e.g., PPAs, module supply agreements, or energy storage deals).
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze market trends, identify emerging opportunities, and develop actionable growth plans.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence senior executives and external partners.

Tips for this application

• Highlight your experience with Canadian Solar's specific product lines (solar modules, inverters, energy storage) and subsidiaries (e-Storage, Recurrent Energy) in your resume and cover letter.
• Quantify your business development achievements, such as revenue generated, deals closed, or market share growth, to demonstrate impact.
• Emphasize your familiarity with the North American renewable energy landscape, including key policies, incentives, and market drivers.
• Showcase any existing relationships with Canadian Solar's potential customers or partners, as this is a relationship-driven role.
• Demonstrate alignment with Canadian Solar's mission and values by mentioning your passion for sustainability and clean energy.

What to cover in your cover letter

["Your specific experience in solar or energy storage business development, with concrete examples of successful deals you've led.", "Your understanding of Canadian Solar's unique value proposition as a vertically integrated manufacturer and project developer.", 'Your ability to build and maintain strategic relationships with key stakeholders in the North American energy market.', 'Your vision for how you would drive growth for Canadian Solar in the region, including target markets or customer segments.']

Research before applying

• Study Canadian Solar's recent projects, press releases, and financial reports to understand their market position and growth strategy.
• Research the North American solar and energy storage markets, including key policies (e.g., IRA), competitors, and emerging trends.
• Learn about Canadian Solar's subsidiaries (e-Storage, Recurrent Energy, MSS, CSI Solar) and how they fit into the overall business.
• Investigate potential customers or partners in the U.S. that Canadian Solar might target, and think about how you could help penetrate those accounts.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Can you walk us through a complex business development deal you closed in the solar or energy storage space? What was your approach?
• How do you identify and prioritize new business opportunities in the renewable energy market?
• What is your understanding of Canadian Solar's competitive advantages in North America, and how would you leverage them?
• Describe your experience working with utilities, IPPs, or EPCs. How do you build and maintain these relationships?
• How do you stay informed about policy changes and market trends affecting the solar industry, and how do you adapt your strategy accordingly?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Being too generic in your application—failing to tailor your resume and cover letter to Canadian Solar's specific products and market focus.
• Not demonstrating a clear understanding of the North American renewable energy landscape, including key policies and market dynamics.
• Focusing only on your past achievements without connecting them to how you would drive results for Canadian Solar in this role.