Lightsource bp

Executive Recruitment Case Study

Lightsource bp is a 50:50 joint venture with bp plc, working together to help drive the world’s transition to low carbon energy. Joining forces with Lightsource in 2017, one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious solar developers, the bp partnership enabled the rebranded Lightsource bp to double their global footprint. With significant solar contracts in the U.S., Australia, Europe, and South America, headquarters for their operations in the Americas are located in San Francisco, California.

What they were doing:

In early 2019, Lightsource bp needed to scale their project management and development teams to keep up with growth. Eden Higgins, Vice President Practice Development, reached out to their new CEO, Kevin Smith, to congratulate him on his new role. Kevin had worked with Duffy Group and Eden in his previous company. After speaking with Eden about the Duffy recruitment research model and recent hires made within the renewable energy sector, Kevin was confident Duffy Group had the process, know-how, and tools to be a successful renewable energy recruiting partner. The first task was finding a top-notch Vice President of Project Management and Construction, based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Duffy Group Strategy:

During an in-depth intake session with the CEO and COO, Eden developed a comprehensive recruiting strategy, analyzing Lightsource bp’s strategic issues, company characteristics, and culture. The detailed conversation regarding the position’s objectives allowed the CEO and COO to further align on the specific candidate profile. Duffy Group launched a customized, national search for highly qualified candidates with the background specific to renewable energy, and the business acumen required for an executive level position.

Results:

Duffy Group compiled a list of 63 potential candidates, presenting a qualified candidate within five business days. A total of three fully vetted candidates were submitted to Lightsource bp for review, and all three were interviewed. One was hired and is currently serving as Vice President of Project Management and Construction, Americas. Eighteen months later, Duffy Group continues its partnership with Lightsource bp and has been successful in placing several high-quality employees; presenting the first top-tier candidate within an average of less than 12 days, and saving the company over 50% compared to traditional search fees.

Our Practice | Learn More |  Contact Us | Team Leader

The Duffy Group has been instrumental in helping to build our solar energy team across the U.S. Key hires in various positions, including development, finance, and engineering. Direct, focused, and easy to work with. We continue to work with the Duffy Group for our critical hires.

Kevin Smith, CEO