Project Developer (ERCOT/SPP)
- Location: Fort Worth
- Salary: $130k - 145k per year
This position will require experience managing utility scale projects throughout the ERCOT and SPP regions specifically. The ideal candidate will be skilled in permitting, site acquisition, land lease negotiations, etc. as well as have the following qualifications:
Project Development
Qualifications
My client is a renewable energy developer and independent power producer that partners with medium-to-large commercial and industrial real estate groups and third-party renewable energy developers. They accelerate the transition to renewable energy by making it easy and profitable to integrate smart energy resources into new and existing buildings and infrastructure. They develop, construct, own, operate, and maintain integrated solar, battery storage, and electric vehicle (EV) charging assets for commercial and industrial customers. Their standardized yet configurable systems meet partners' unique needs, allowing commercial and industrial property owners, operating companies, and their customers to extract greater value from their assets, take increased responsibility and ownership of their energy profile, and ultimately become part of the clean energy transition.My client is looking for a passionate, collaborative, and innovative Sr. Project Developer with experience in developing solar energy projects to support the origination, development, and delivery of projects on-time and on-budget. The Sr. Project Developer will collaborate closely with colleagues at all levels of the organization to guide development strategies that will have the greatest customer impact and highest commercial value.The Sr. Project Developer will develop projects with existing and/or new customers/partners, perform project-level development to NTP, manage project schedules and budgets, review the target IRR with the Finance team to ensure goals are being met, guide projects through the interconnection process, and ensure development milestones are met. They will partner with Legal to ensure projects obtain site control and have a clear title review, collaborate with development partners and/or act individually to obtain special use permits and all other non-ministerial permits, and develop a building permit matrix with the PM team. They will ensure survey work is completed and necessary permits, real estate, and grid interconnection agreements are secured, work closely with account managers to ensure smooth collaboration and development of parcels with real estate owners, work collaboratively with the Construction teams and assist in developing SOW and EPC contracts, and identify and suggest improvements to business processes and best practices.The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or related field, preferred with an MBA and/or advanced cost accounting experience. They should have 6+ years of Community Solar Development experience, including distributed energy projects with a focus on in-front-of-the-meter solar projects in New York. They should also have a demonstrated success in conceptualizing and developing renewable energy solutions, an understanding of all aspects of solar power development, including sitting, interconnection, permitting, construction, and financing, as well as utility/energy/grid transformation. Additionally, they should have direct experience in distribution-grid level project development, obtaining site control, acquiring interconnection services agreements, and working with Procurement to manage equipment supply chains for hitting COD goals.The Sr. Project Developer will have experience developing and delivering ISO-level battery energy storage systems, experience in ERCOT, MISO, and SPP in TX strongly preferred, and experience using enterprise software like Salesforce, Procore, and Netsuite and participating with the Software Development team to capture project information for management. They should have proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) and/or Google Suite (Docs, Slides, Sheets, Calendar), Adobe CS, and Microsoft Project, and be willing and able to travel locally and nationally 50% or more to meet with real estate owners, energy co-developers, and suppliers and visit project sites.My client offers an opportunity to play a significant role in transforming the energy industry, growth, development, learning, and advancement opportunities, an extremely flexible environment where your voice, thoughts, and ideas are valued and heard, and excellent benefits. The preferred locations for the Sr. Project Developer are Houston, TX; Los Angeles, CA; Boulder, CO; or Marlborough, MA, but remote work will also be considered.
This client is seeking an experienced project developer to manage utility-scale renewable energy projects in the Central United States. As one of the largest and most technologically advanced utility-scale solar and energy storage project development companies in the United States, our client's portfolio boasts more than 23 GW of renewable energy projects. With a full-service model that manages all aspects of development for customers, partners, and project host communities, our client is committed to helping decarbonize the energy grid by replacing electric power generation with renewable sources and delivering cost-competitive electricity to the marketplace.In this role, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading cross-functional project teams through the entire development process, from obtaining site control through permitting to the start of construction. Reporting to the Central U.S. Regional Team Lead, the candidate will be leading a team of internal staff and external consultants with expertise in engineering, meteorology and resource assessment, permitting, environmental studies, real estate/title, and transmission. This is a great opportunity for someone who has previous experience in utility-scale solar, wind, and/or energy storage development and wants to work with a company that is committed to renewable energy and sustainability.The core responsibilities of the job include site acquisition, site control documents, and real estate curative negotiations, creation and management of an overall project strategy plan, project schedule and critical path management, site acquisition including landowner lease negotiations, coordination of local, state, and federal permitting processes, coordination of project environmental and wildlife studies, creation and management of a project public relations plan, project budget and cash flow projection, management and tracking, coordination of the project interconnection process, support in the identification and screening of project opportunities, negotiation of local tax abatement/incentives, proactive coordination of preliminary project design, and support in the negotiation of power purchase and asset sale agreements. The successful candidate must have excellent entrepreneurial, interpersonal, verbal/written communication, good judgment, project management, negotiation, and leadership skills.The job requirements include a 4-year college
PROJECT DEVELOPER Location: Chicago local (hybrid or remote)Hybrid- flexible based on your scheduleRemote- expectation to travel for team meetings and occasional site visits We are excited to offer an opportunity to join our growing team as a Project Developer. The Project Developer will play a key role in the development of distributed-generation solar projects, with a focus on community solar. This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about renewable energy and eager to make an impact right away.As the Project Developer, you will be responsible for site acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and other development activities. You will understand the market(s) you work in and develop and execute the development strategy. You will have the support of a small, close-knit development team, and you will work directly with upper management and have a high degree of autonomy. Key Responsibilities Secure site control agreements with landowners who are interested in our offer to lease or purchase their landCoordinate with third-party engineering firms on due diligence and project deliverablesNavigate the interconnection process with utilities and track all milestones, due dates, fees, etc.Secure land use permits and other pre-construction approvals from Local Government Units (LGUs)Prepare projects for construction commencement in coordination with our construction teamCultivate and maintain positive relationships with landowners, utilities, and LGUs throughout the development lifecycleMonitor and analyze market factors, including new legislation/regulationPrepare budget requests to obtain internal approvals for major project expensesSupport and coordinate with key functional teams, including Site Selection, Origination, Legal, Finance, Construction, and Asset Management Core Proficiencies Previous solar development experienceAbility to research and learn a new process (e.g., studying a LGU’s ordinance for permitting or learning the interconnection application process of a new utility)Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including an ability to tailor communication to different types of audiences, such as farmers, utility employees, and government employeesAbility to forge relationships and build consensus with key stakeholdersStrong problem-solving skills and can work through never-before-seen issues autonomously but knows when to seek support from teammatesDetail-oriented and self-motivated achiever with the ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlinesAbility to consistently stay organizedEnthusiasm and passion for the renewable energy industry We are looking for a high achiever who is excited to contribute to our team and make a positive impact. While we prefer candidates in Chicago, we are open to discussing a remote position. If you are eager to join a high-growth company in the renewable energy industry, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Job Description:My client is a dynamic Renewable Energy Solutions Provider operating across North America, delivering predictably priced renewable electricity services for commercial, municipal, and utility customers. My client specializes in navigating a complex ecosystem of regulatory and economic markets to find the highest value for its customers by being first movers and innovative solutions providers. From highly visible solar canopies at schools to large scale ground-mounted applications, the team of industry leaders at my client designs specific financial and technical solutions for each customer to maximize the impact of their renewable energy projects.Summary of Functions:The Development Project Manager will manage projects, consultants, and engineers while ensuring minimum gross profit margins are attained, annual MW targets are achieved, and project cycle times are maintained for specific portfolios of solar photovoltaic projects developed by my client. This position reports to the Senior Project Manager overseeing development in the assigned region.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:• Develop solar projects while simultaneously supporting land development efforts, conditional permitting, interconnection, and offtake timelines.• Support organizational initiatives and reporting as needed.• Support origination efforts, ensuring that project bids are both competitive and feasible.• Create full project development schedules and high-level construction and interconnection schedules to establish reasonable and achievable construction start and commercial operation dates.• Manage the development schedule and budget to ensure timely and cost-effective project completion.• Manage portfolios of projects with an eye to project metrics, implementing streamlined processes for large volume and to ensure shorter cycle times.• Work with internal teams to ensure successful project construction and closing, communicating regularly with legal, engineering, and project finance colleagues.• Engage external consultants as needed for land development and permitting expertise.• Work with state, county and local governments, community groups, and neighbors.• Manage and solve all required real estate issues, negotiating easements, mineral rights, access agreements, and other applicable title and curative work necessary to achieve full site control.• Manage and message project risks and mitigants to the Executive Team.• Bring projects to the internal “Notice to Proceed” stage gate approval (or prepare for sale at NTP to project company buyer) in a timely manner to maintain construction start dates.• Following the Notice to Proceed stage gate, monitor and provide direction to EPC partners from the construction phase through commercial operation and financial closing.• Respond to investor and/or 3rd party finance questions to ensure timely financial closing.• Manage customer, off-taker, and stakeholder relationships by keeping them informed on project progress and complying with associated agreements.• Review RFP, ESA, and/or other energy off-take agreements and site licensing documents and support due diligence and negotiation efforts.• Coordinate ESA amendments, estoppel certificates, consents, and any other project finance or legal documents requiring energy off-taker execution.Qualifications:My client is looking for highly motivated individuals who want to be part of a fast-paced and fluid company poised for growth in one of the country’s most rapidly changing industries. Forward-thinking, innovative approaches, and comfort with complexity are what define the my client team. They are looking for individuals eager to run at the front with them.• Proven track record of accomplishments working as a Project Manager with multiple projects, as well as collaborating with internal stakeholders and support organizations.• Strong organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.• Motivation to accomplish objectives to achieve company goals and objectives.• Highly motivated self-starter, friendly personality, team player, lead by example.• High level of knowledge and experience in the renewable energy industry; solar PV project development and/or construction preferred.• Bachelor of Science in related field of work; Construction Management, Renewable Energy, Engineering, or related Technical degree preferred.• Computer proficiency including MS Project, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Accounting applications.PHYSICAL DEMANDSThough the Development Department believes in long term work/life balance, we also believe in short term imbalances. Long hours will be needed from time to time as dictated by reporting and other deadlines. If travel is required for this position, note the 40% of time required to travel.WORK ENVIRONMENTThe position is a remote position. Offices in San Francisco and New York are available when required for work or project travel. The organization promotes an open and collaborative work atmosphere. Cross functional teams work closely together to solve problems and move the company forward.
Job Description:My client is a dynamic Renewable Energy Solutions Provider operating across North America, delivering predictably priced renewable electricity services for commercial, municipal, and utility customers. My client specializes in navigating a complex ecosystem of regulatory and economic markets to find the highest value for its customers by being first movers and innovative solutions providers. From highly visible solar canopies at schools to large scale ground-mounted applications, the team of industry leaders at my client designs specific financial and technical solutions for each customer to maximize the impact of their renewable energy projects.Summary of Functions:The Development Project Manager will manage projects, consultants, and engineers while ensuring minimum gross profit margins are attained, annual MW targets are achieved, and project cycle times are maintained for specific portfolios of solar photovoltaic projects developed by my client. This position reports to the Senior Project Manager overseeing development in the assigned region.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:• Develop solar projects while simultaneously supporting land development efforts, conditional permitting, interconnection, and offtake timelines.• Support organizational initiatives and reporting as needed.• Support origination efforts, ensuring that project bids are both competitive and feasible.• Create full project development schedules and high-level construction and interconnection schedules to establish reasonable and achievable construction start and commercial operation dates.• Manage the development schedule and budget to ensure timely and cost-effective project completion.• Manage portfolios of projects with an eye to project metrics, implementing streamlined processes for large volume and to ensure shorter cycle times.• Work with internal teams to ensure successful project construction and closing, communicating regularly with legal, engineering, and project finance colleagues.• Engage external consultants as needed for land development and permitting expertise.• Work with state, county and local governments, community groups, and neighbors.• Manage and solve all required real estate issues, negotiating easements, mineral rights, access agreements, and other applicable title and curative work necessary to achieve full site control.• Manage and message project risks and mitigants to the Executive Team.• Bring projects to the internal “Notice to Proceed” stage gate approval (or prepare for sale at NTP to project company buyer) in a timely manner to maintain construction start dates.• Following the Notice to Proceed stage gate, monitor and provide direction to EPC partners from the construction phase through commercial operation and financial closing.• Respond to investor and/or 3rd party finance questions to ensure timely financial closing.• Manage customer, off-taker, and stakeholder relationships by keeping them informed on project progress and complying with associated agreements.• Review RFP, ESA, and/or other energy off-take agreements and site licensing documents and support due diligence and negotiation efforts.• Coordinate ESA amendments, estoppel certificates, consents, and any other project finance or legal documents requiring energy off-taker execution.Qualifications:My client is looking for highly motivated individuals who want to be part of a fast-paced and fluid company poised for growth in one of the country’s most rapidly changing industries. Forward-thinking, innovative approaches, and comfort with complexity are what define the my client team. They are looking for individuals eager to run at the front with them.• Proven track record of accomplishments working as a Project Manager with multiple projects, as well as collaborating with internal stakeholders and support organizations.• Strong organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.• Motivation to accomplish objectives to achieve company goals and objectives.• Highly motivated self-starter, friendly personality, team player, lead by example.• High level of knowledge and experience in the renewable energy industry; solar PV project development and/or construction preferred.• Bachelor of Science in related field of work; Construction Management, Renewable Energy, Engineering, or related Technical degree preferred.• Computer proficiency including MS Project, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Accounting applications.PHYSICAL DEMANDSThough the Development Department believes in long term work/life balance, we also believe in short term imbalances. Long hours will be needed from time to time as dictated by reporting and other deadlines. If travel is required for this position, note the 40% of time required to travel.WORK ENVIRONMENTThe position is a remote position. Offices in San Francisco and New York are available when required for work or project travel. The organization promotes an open and collaborative work atmosphere. Cross functional teams work closely together to solve problems and move the company forward.REMUNERATIONThis is a regular, full-time position eligible for benefits. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including competitive base salary and bonus potential; health, vision, and dental coverage; commute assistance; professional development; Paid Time Off; and 401(k) with employer match.
Spencer Ogden are proud to be partnered with an international solar developer expanding their operations in the UK. Our client are on the hunt for a Head of Project Development to lead an existing and growing pipeline of solar and battery storage projects across the country. This is an opportunity to join a multi-tech, international renewable developer with an impressive pipeline (19GW) both domestically and internationally. Day-to-day responsibilities include: Manage project development activities for renewable energy projects from green field through to pre-construction compliance.Lead land lease negotiation and liaison with land owners, agents, solicitors and other relevant parties.Provide input to the UK Director on project development strategy and targets.Manage project development team resource allocation to deliver optimal outcomesProvide support to the project development team in their rolesContinue to support, develop and strategize growth in the UK and internationally Preferential requirements include: A relecant academic background in environmental, planning or renewable energy/engineeringProject management and team leading experienceStrong skills in the following IT remits: ArcGIS, Microsoft and Invoicing SystemsPrevious experience in business development and/or identifying new opportunitiesKnowledge of relevant UK legislation, hold the right to work in the UK and a Full UK Driver's License There is a strong financial package and bonus structure in place for the right candidate. Previous experience in renewables is essential, with a preference towards solar and battery storage. Please apply via the link or contact Theo Bove via the details below to learn more: 0141 375 7292 theo.bove@spencer-ogden.com
The company, my client, is expediting the transition to renewable energy by integrating intelligent energy resources into existing and new infrastructure. As a national energy partner and an independent power producer, they develop, construct, own, operate, and maintain integrated solar, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging assets for their commercial and industrial customers. They use their expertise, financial strength, and proprietary technology to offer configurable, standardized systems that meet the unique needs of their partners. By leveraging these systems, their clients can realize greater value from their assets, take ownership of their energy profiles, and become active participants in the renewable energy transition.They are looking for passionate, collaborative, and innovative thinkers who want to make a difference by creating a better future. The position of Senior Project Developer is open for experienced professionals who can support the origination, development, and delivery of projects by collaborating with the team and guiding development strategies that offer the most significant customer impact and highest commercial value.The ideal candidate is a problem solver, learner, and results-oriented person who can work on multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and mobilize resources. They have excellent communication skills and can present complex information to various stakeholder groups in a logical and accessible way. They are proficient in using enterprise software and have experience in developing and delivering ISO-level battery energy storage systems.The successful candidate will be responsible for developing projects with existing and new partners, managing project schedules and budgets, reviewing the target IRR with the finance team, guiding projects through the interconnection process, and working with engineering, utilities, and customers to ensure development milestones are met. They will also identify and suggest improvements to business processes and best practices, evaluate community solar acquisitions, and work collaboratively with various stakeholders.My client offers an opportunity to transform the energy industry, growth, development, learning, and advancement opportunities, and an extremely flexible work environment. They also provide excellent benefits, including health, dental, vision, life, AD&D, STD, LTD, AFLAC, pet, legal, commuter, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and more.
Spencer Ogden has partnered with a large renewable energy developer who is seeking a Development Engineer to join their team.This person will drive solar, PV, wind and integrated BESS project development across the US and Internationally.You will be: Qualifying new solar and battery storage project opportunitiesPerforming technical due diligence on project practicalityResponding to RFPs from key stakeholdersConducting preliminary design evaluation You will have: Over 3 years of experience in renewable energy project development, design, analysis and constructionExperience in designing, engineering and analyzing PV systems and BESS (2MW - 500MW)Experience with PVSYST or HelioscopeSpanish language skills (desirable) This role is based in Louisville, Colorado but our client is also open to remote work.We look forward to discussing your experience with you.
Spencer Ogden are partnered with a prominent player in the Renewable Energy sector in Australia, specialising in the development, construction, asset management, and maintenance of utility-scale solar and storage solutions. Their portfolio spans a wide range of projects and are rapidly growing their pipeline.About the roleAs the Head of Development, you will lead a team responsible for the development of utility-scale renewable energy projects, including solar and energy storage. Your role will involve managing project performance, identifying growth opportunities, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.Key responsibilities Develop clear project development strategies, goals, plans, and resources to achieve short-term and long-term business objectives.Manage project development performance in a safe, timely, and cost-effective manner through internal teams and external partners.Identify areas of opportunity for portfolio growth and collaborate with the corporate development team to assess investment opportunities.Lead due diligence efforts for projects and investment opportunities.Oversee the commercial review and negotiation of contracts, agreements, and risk allocation frameworks.Manage development processes, including risk assessment, budget management, and stakeholder engagement.Advise on WHSE and stakeholder management strategies throughout the development cycle.Support corporate development, construction, and asset management initiatives.Assist senior leadership in preparing internal approval materials and board presentations Qualifications & Skills Tertiary qualification in engineering, environment, science, or business-related fields.10+ years of experience in power or renewable energy project development.Strong track record in large-scale project development and management within the renewable energy sector.Experience in Australian solar and battery projects.Excellent project management skills, including managing large teams on concurrent projects.Ability to assess and resolve project and contractual risks.Solid understanding of the development process for major power projects.Strong negotiation and communication skills. If you are driven by innovation, have a passion for the renewable energy space where your contributions will have a meaningful impact, please apply below or email orlagh.fleming@spencer-ogden.com / 03 8376 2816
This position will be under the general direction of a Senior Project Manager, on the Project Development Team. The Project Manager position is responsible for the management, or the assistance of managing, all phases of project planning to ensure all project success factors are met, including but not limited to scope, schedule, cost, quality, environmental, safety, communications, security, and integration. This position will be assigned to multiple transmission projects. In aggregate, these projects are typically less than $10M with a Low to Moderate level of complexity impacting only the facility or department level within the Company. The PM serves as the unifying agent providing leadership, management, direction, coordination, and control of the overall project in accordance with the established policies, procedures, systems, and requirements of The Company.This position is typically retained to manage multiple “White” or “Green I” projects per the Project Management Center of Excellence Project Profile Matrix.Required Qualifications: Minimum of 5 years of project management experience. Graduation from a two-year college or university. Working knowledge of project management principles. Working Knowledge to Proficiency in Project Management, Decision Making, Critical Thinking, and Problem Solving; Project related work experience; Risk Management; Project Leadership; Proven Collaborative Team Member.Preferred Qualifications: Graduation from a four-year college or university. Utility Technical Certifications/Training; PMI (PMP or CAPM) Certification; CMII certificates; Professional Engineer License. Working knowledge to proficiency in project related Scheduling/ Cost Controls. Experience in utility industry. Knowledge in construction management. The Project Manager may have relationships with individuals in various organizations ranging from individual contributors to Senior Department Leadership (i.e. individual contributors up to executive management).
Key Responsibilities: · Conduct market analysis and select sites for greenfield development. · Identify and facilitate project acquisitions. · Secure land leases for greenfield opportunities and maintain relationships with landowners for existing projects. · Manage environmental assessment campaigns and work with external consultants. · Oversee discretionary permitting activities at all levels of government. · Manage resource management campaigns and estimate energy production. · Work with internal stakeholders and consultants to manage the electrical interconnection process. · Collaborate with internal technical services such as energy analysis, engineering, and operations. · Assess the financial feasibility of projects with the corporate finance department. · Represent the company at regional industry association meetings and caucuses. · Coordinate the preparation of RFP responses. Qualifications: · Bachelor's degree, preferably in engineering. An MBA is a strong plus. · 3 to 7 years of experience in energy project development, with a preference for energy storage projects. Experience in other electricity generation or commercial development (such as warehouses, data centers) is also relevant. · Strong understanding of major power project development processes. · Ability to navigate local community dynamics and negotiate effectively with utilities, landowners, and other stakeholders. · Familiarity with energy storage and/or renewable energy issues and economics.
Position: Renewable Energy Project DeveloperLocation: Preferred locations: Denver; remote work consideredOur client, a leading developer, owner, operator, and financier of solar and solar + storage projects, is seeking a highly motivated Renewable Energy Project Developer to join their dynamic team. As a Project Developer, you will be responsible for driving the development of distributed-generation solar projects, with a focus on community solar. You will oversee site acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and other key development activities, working closely with landowners, utilities, local government units (LGUs), and internal teams to ensure successful project implementation.Key Responsibilities: Lead site acquisition efforts, negotiating and securing site control agreements for the lease or purchase of land in compliance with client requirementsCoordinate with third-party engineering firms to conduct due diligence and obtain necessary project deliverables, such as technical reports and engineering studiesNavigate the interconnection process with utilities, monitoring milestones, due dates, fees, and requirements to ensure timely and successful interconnection of solar projectsObtain land use permits and other pre-construction approvals from LGUs, including thorough research and understanding of LGU ordinances and regulations related to solar projectsPrepare projects for construction commencement in coordination with the construction team, including site preparations, procurement of materials, and schedulingFoster and maintain positive relationships with landowners, utilities, and LGUs throughout the development lifecycle, addressing any issues or conflicts that may ariseMonitor and analyze market factors, including new legislation/regulations, market trends, and competitor activities, to inform development strategies and identify new opportunitiesPrepare budget requests and financial analyses to obtain internal approvals for major project expenses, and track project costs to ensure adherence to budgetsCollaborate and coordinate with key functional teams, including Site Selection, Origination, Legal, Finance, Construction, and Asset Management, to ensure smooth project development and implementation Core Proficiencies: Demonstrated experience in renewable energy project development, including site acquisition, permitting, interconnection, and other development activitiesAbility to research and quickly grasp new processes, such as understanding and interpreting LGU ordinances or utility interconnection application processesExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders, such as landowners, utilities, and government officialsStrong relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders through effective communication, negotiation, and conflict resolutionStrong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently to resolve issues and make decisions, while also knowing when to seek support from team members or upper managementDetail-oriented and self-motivated, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environmentHighly organized, with a keen attention to detail and accuracy in documentation and record-keepingEnthusiasm and passion for the renewable energy industry, with a strong commitment to sustainability and clean energy solutions Our client is an equal opportunity employer, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. They value diverse teams and perspectives as they lead to better outcomes and innovative thinking, which are essential to their long-term success.