At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the launch of innovative low-carbon heating systems and manage diverse project teams.
- Company: ESP, a forward-thinking company focused on sustainable energy solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to transforming the energy landscape.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of energy innovation and make a real difference in sustainability.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in project management with strong stakeholder and budget management skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
As part of our growth strategy, ESP is launching Heat as our fourth utility. ESP’s District Heat proposition offers a highly energy-efficient, cost-competitive low-carbon heating system solution for developers. Future Homes Standard compliant and ‘Regulation Ready', its adaptability and ease of installation, along with value and reliability benefits for the consumer, make it the energy system of the future. To enable the business to launch this proposition in 2026, we are seeking to appoint a Heat Networks Project Manager to lead the enablement of the Heat Networks business function.
Role Purpose
Lead the end-to-end delivery of the processes, systems, and practices needed to enable the Heat Networks business function, ensuring delivery within agreed scope, budget, quality, and benefit parameters.
Key Responsibilities
- Programme Management: Develop and execute programme plan for the establishment of the Heat Networks business function within ESP, including the business systems, networks, process and practices.
- Governance & Monitoring: Implement and maintain robust programme governance, including tracking of budgets, schedules, KRIs/KPIs, and comprehensive documentation (plans, risk/issue logs, forecasts).
- Third-Party Management: Coordinate and manage third-party service providers for Heat Network operations, metering & billing, CRM and networks. Ensuring contractual and business performance standards are met. Ensure that processes developed for Heat Networks are scalable and replicable for other utilities services including water.
- Business, Process & System Change: Define and implement changes across all areas of the business (Commercial Delivery, Pricing, Design, Customer Fulfilment, Customer Operations, and Engineering). Collaborate with stakeholders to model processes and ensure system and operational readiness.
- Risk, Issue & Dependency Management: Maintain RAID logs, implement mitigation plans, and escalate governance issues as appropriate.
- Compliance & HSE: Ensure all programme outcomes comply with relevant regulations, health, safety, and environmental standards.
- Business Case & Benefits Realisation: Support the development and maintenance of the business case, track outcomes and KPIs, and ensure delivery against benefit targets.
- Continuous Improvement: Capture lessons learned and drive ongoing improvement in programme delivery and business processes.
- Governance Forums: Chair delivery and programme boards, coordinate assurance reviews, and support transparent decision-making and escalation.
- Transition to BAU: Lead change readiness and handover to operational teams, ensuring processes and systems are embedded and business-as-usual readiness is achieved.
- Executive Reporting: Produce and present progress reports, dashboards, risk summaries, and performance briefings to senior leadership.
Key Skills
Essential:
- Extensive experience (7+ years) managing multi-party, technology infrastructure or utilities programmes, with specific exposure to third-party provider management.
- Proven track record delivering business change across commercial, pricing, fulfilment, operations, and engineering domains.
- Strong budget ownership, financial forecasting, governance, and benefits management skills.
- Excellent stakeholder management and executive-level communication skills.
- Proficient in risk, issue, and dependency management with proven governance implementation skills.
- Demonstrated compliance with regulatory and HSE requirements.
Desirable:
- Experience in regulated environments or public sector interfaces.
- Digital literacy and experience with data management and technology-enabled programme delivery.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
- BEng, Business, Project/Programme Management, or related discipline.
Person Specification
- Strategic planning and delivery of business transformation programmes.
- Leadership in complex, matrixed environments; coordination of internal and external teams.
- Process improvement, documentation, and analytical capabilities.
- Financial acumen with budget control and business justification.
- Effective risk and issue management using structured frameworks (e.g., RAID).
- Executive-level communication and facilitation of governance boards.
- Commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.
Project Manager – Heat Networks in Leatherhead employer: ESP Utilities Group Ltd
ESP Utilities is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a supportive work culture in our modern Leatherhead office. With generous benefits such as enhanced holidays, private medical insurance, and access to exclusive discounts, we ensure our team members feel valued and motivated. Our commitment to training and development, alongside a focus on work-life balance, makes us an attractive choice for those seeking a rewarding career in customer service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager – Heat Networks in Leatherhead
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughESP Utilities Group Ltd's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through ESP Utilities Group Ltd's website for the full-time Project Manager – Heat Networks role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager – Heat Networks in Leatherhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at ESP Utilities Group Ltd. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ESP Utilities Group Ltd
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of ESP Utilities Group Ltd.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to ESP Utilities Group Ltd.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
