About the Role In April 2025 the National Energy System Operator (NESO) took on the exciting new role of being the UK’s Regional Energy Strategic Planner. We are responsible for developing 11 Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs) across nine English regions, plus Scotland and Wales. what-we-do/strategic-planning/regional-energy-strategic-planning-resp Our Scotland team will work with other NESO teams and with organisations across Scotland, including the Scottish Government, local government and gas and electricity networks, in developing the RESP. The purpose of the Scotland Strategic Lead is to lead aspects of developing the Scotland RESP, as detailed in the Key Accountabilities below. Key Accountabilities To represent NESO’s national energy planning function at strategic level and deputise for the Scotland RESP manager To engage with specific key national stakeholders within the Scottish Government, local government, gas and electricity networks, other local actors and whole energy system stakeholders to understand their views and requirements to ensure that RESP delivers value To design, support and run workshops and engagement activity with the Scotland RESP Strategic Board, working groups and other stakeholders to progress the RESP To implement relevant parts of the RESP methodology in Scotland and contribute to continuous development and consultation. To be the subject matter expert in understanding specific aspects of Scotland’s energy system and the interfaces with both internal NESO and external stakeholders To define and lead on RESP work packages; working in a matrix style structure to ensure work your leading upon is coordinated with other national/regional and hub RESP teams To produce and deliver clear, concise, short reports and slide packs in progressing the RESP. Ensure that the key messages are relevant, clear, and pitched appropriately for the audience. To understand, engage and gain required and beneficial inputs from stakeholders in developing the RESP to the prescribed methodology; being able to clearly communicate and propose changes where needed to key assumptions To create new ways to analyse and present problems and potential solutions, sometimes building on the work and experience of others to quickly develop sufficient understanding of unfamiliar topics in developing the RESP This role will be based from our Glasgow office. Some travel will be expected (e.g., to NESO Warwick Office for team workshops or within Scotland to meet with key stakeholders). We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements. 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 Key skills and experience we are looking for are: Experience within the energy sector, including technical energy knowledge Experience of communicating with, and influencing, internal and external stakeholders at a range of levels Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Knowledge of energy project development lifecycles and the ‘whole energy’ system – with advanced experience in at least one of the energy vectors (gas and/or electricity networks, heat decarbonisation, hydrogen, transport decarbonisation, etc) Experience of working with or within devolved government, local authorities and/or energy distribution companies, ideally in Scotland Ability to translate complex and technical information into easily understandable messaging for non-technical audiences, in both reports and presentations Knowledge and experience of strategic critical thinking with ability to consider strategic frameworks and concepts, and how changes to these will drive RESP design and implementation An understanding of data and systems used in the energy distribution networks and/or in local energy planning Project management, coordination and planning skills to ensure that deadlines are met, governance is adhered to, stakeholders are effectively engaged and high quality process and outputs are achieved An inquisitive mind with the ability to join the dots and a willingness to learn about new areas of work Training and development of the team will be a key priority as we set up RESP. Successful individuals may be asked to help train other team members and also have the opportunity to be trained on less familiar areas. What You'll Get A competitive salary of £57,000 - £68,000 dependent on experience and capabilityAs well as your base salary, NESO's core benefits are the essential perks and advantages that form part of your employee package. You will receive a bonus based on company performance- 26 days annual leave as standard - A competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. Annual Enrollment to NESO Savings Plan, when you save between £20- £500 a month from your take-home pay, we will pay a 50% matching contribution. Flexible Bank Holidays
Strategic Lead - Scotland employer: National Energy System Operator Limited
At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. As a Senior Data Scientist, you will not only contribute to vital decarbonisation efforts but also have access to mentorship opportunities and a supportive environment that values your insights and expertise. Located at the heart of the energy transition, NESO provides a unique chance to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a forward-thinking organisation.
Contact Details:
National Energy System Operator Limited Recruitment Team
