Job Description

About the Role

Great Britain is at a critical point on its path to net zero and decarbonisation of the energy system is at the heart of this journey. Now, more than ever, energy strategy and policy must go further and faster to ensure that we not only deliver against the Government’s net zero ambitions, but that this is done in a way that ensures that energy is reliable, affordable, and fair for all.

National Energy System Operator (NESO) are now looking for a European Network Interface Strategy Manager to be part of Strategic Energy Planning (SEP). SEP is accountable for leading the development of an economic and efficient electricity transmission network across Great Britain and for ensuring that GB network strategy is properly informed by, and aligned with, developments across Europe. This role will help strengthen how NESO works with European partners and across the business to shape future network requirements, cross-border opportunities and the strategic planning choices needed to support GB’s Net Zero targets.

As the European Network Interface Strategy Manager, you will lead NESO’s strategic approach to European electricity network coordination, working across SEP and the wider business to ensure European developments, policy direction and emerging cross-border opportunities are reflected in GB network planning. You will build strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders, including European partners, Ofgem, DESNZ and Transmission Owners, to identify trends, influence future planning frameworks and support joined-up decision making. The role will play a key part in connecting NESO’s domestic network strategy with the wider European energy landscape, helping ensure our plans are robust, credible and aligned with long-term decarbonisation, security of supply and consumer value.

This role can be based from Warwick, Wokingham or Glasgow, and we continue to offer hybrid working from office and home. Some travel to London, Warwick and Europe will be required. We are open to full time, as well as flexible working arrangements.

Key Accountabilities

• Represent NESO and GB interests externally with European energy stakeholders, including leading relationships with the Offshore TSO Collaboration group, ENTSOE and other groups.
• Provide proactive insights on interactive energy strategies between GB and European networks to government, regulators and industry stakeholders being the lead point of contact for NESO into established cross-organisational forums.
• Create a strong and close relationship with all relevant stakeholders and customers (internal and external), engaging with external bodies e.g., third countries, interconnectors, GB TOs., Ofgem, DESNZ to explore strategic opportunities and policy changes, and identify strategic priorities for network planning.
• Ensure that interconnector solutions for the CSNP are aligned with SSEP and stakeholder expectations, and work cross functionally to deliver components of the European network interface aligned to the CSNP methodology.
• Engage with relevant stakeholders to plan future opportunities for European development, and create a Cross-Border/European strategy that represents NESO.
• Identify emerging trends and risks related to Europe that the department will need to proactively plan or mitigating against.
• Influence and input into future policy development, engaging with Ofgem, DESNZ and other key stakeholders, leading contributions to consultations on Europe.
• Create a high performing culture where every team member is fully engaged and knows the value they create for the organisation.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Visa sponsorship may not be available for this role and will be considered in line with business requirements.

About You

We’re forging the path, and we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why we need visionary minds like yours to join us on this transformative journey. In this case, we’re looking for someone who has:

• Knowledge of power system engineering and their application in transmission investment planning, particularly cross border and offshore planning.
• Understanding of strategic GB and European electricity network design and operation.
• Knowledge of future interconnection strategy and delivery approach, including emerging approaches to offshore hybrid assets and offshore coordination.
• Demonstrated ability to build high quality, motivated teams and efficient internal and external working interfaces through active relationship building.

• Demonstrated leadership qualities in accountability, adaptability and collaboration.
• Proven ability to build high-quality relationships both internally and externally and using those to achieve the required outcomes.
• Ability to deliver change and mitigate complex risks for the overall benefit of NESO both internally and with our external stakeholders, in a sometimes uncertain environment.
• Ability to develop self and their direct reports to achieve their full potential.
• Ability to think holistically about strategic energy planning and lead others constructively through complex requirements and trade-offs.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to communicate complex technical information in a way non-engineers can understand.

What You'll Get

A competitive salary of £60,000 - £75,000 dependent on experience and capabilityAs well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus of up to 15% of your salary for stretch performance, 28 days annual leave as standard, and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.

NESO's flexible benefits programme provides you with more flexibility around your health, lifestyle and protection benefits, here's just a few available:
- Flexible Bank Holidays & Holiday Trading
- Additional Birthday Day Off
- Cycle to Work Scheme, Retail & Gym Discounts
- Private Medical Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance & Personal Accident Insurance

About Us

At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we play a vital role in tackling climate change and securing Great Britain's energy future. We already operate the world's fastest decarbonising electricity system and are working towards our ambition to run it carbon-free for a short period this year - provided the market supplies electricity exclusively from renewable sources. Alongside this, we provide expert advice to government on how to deliver a clean power system by 2030.

In autumn 2024, the Electricity System Operator (ESO) transitioned to become NESO - an independent, expert public corporation with a whole-system view across electricity, gas, and hydrogen. NESO operates independently and transparently, always acting in the best interests of all energy users.

Licensed and regulated by Ofgem, we make impartial decisions that balance sustainability, affordability and security. Our organisation is fully independent from government, the regulator and all commercial interests, with a clear focus on system-wide benefit, long term thing and public value.

The time to deliver is now. Join the energy transformation and help shape the future.
Your energy. Our future. Together

National Energy System Operator (NESO) recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

More Information

This role closes at 23:59, on the day before date shown above, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.

Research shows that some people may hesitate to apply unless they meet every single requirement. At NESO, we believe potential comes in many forms and we're committed to a fair, inclusive recruitment

We're committed to building a workforce that represents the communities we serve, and a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential. If this role sparks your interest but you're not sure you tick every box, we still want to hear from you. process where everyone has the opportunity to show their talents. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.