Portfolio Manager - NESO in Wokingham

Portfolio Manager - NESO in Wokingham

Wokingham Full-Time 60000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
National Energy System Operator Limited

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the governance of NESO's investment portfolio to drive sustainable energy solutions.
  • Company: Join NESO, a leader in transforming Great Britain's energy future.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus potential, and flexible benefits tailored for you.
  • Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on clean energy while developing your career in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in portfolio management and strong leadership skills are essential.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.

National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) strength lies in our people. Together, we’re shaping the future where clean, affordable energy is accessible for all. Every day is an opportunity to make a real difference, accelerating the progress of sustainable GB energy, keeping people connected and society thriving as we create a brighter tomorrow.

The Portfolio Manager role sits within the Enterprise Portfolio Office (EPO), which is responsible for the effective management of NESO’s enterprise-wide investment portfolio to ensure alignment to strategic objectives and maximise the value derived from our portfolio investments for delivering the organisation's net zero goals.

Reporting to the Head of Portfolio Office, this role provides leadership and ownership of end-to-end Portfolio Governance across NESO. The role holder will design, embed and continuously improve governance frameworks, standards and methodologies to ensure robust governance, effective portfolio assurance and clear decision-making structures across all programmes and projects. Expertise in portfolio office management is essential for success in this role. The role can be based in Wokingham or with hybrid working from both the office and home. Attendance in the office is required 1 - 2 times a week.

Key Accountabilities
  • Defining, implementing and continuously improving the end-to-end Enterprise Portfolio Governance framework to ensure consistent, transparent and effective decision-making across all programmes, projects and key BAU activity.
  • Establishing and maintaining robust portfolio management standards, policies and methodologies to drive consistency, best practice and high-quality delivery across the enterprise.
  • Establishing and delivering a comprehensive portfolio assurance approach, providing independent oversight, challenge and insight on portfolio health, risks, issues and deliverability to support informed decision-making.
  • Leading governance requirements for Portfolio & Project Management (PPM) tooling (Verto), ensuring alignment to standards, lifecycle processes and consistent, high-quality data across the enterprise portfolio.
  • Developing and delivering clear, consistent and governance-led portfolio communications, including executive reporting, board materials and decision packs to enable transparency and alignment.
  • Providing expert direction and guidance on processes, standards, and best practices, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
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:

  • Professional certification in portfolio / programme / project management (e.g. MSP, MoP, PRINCE2, APM) or equivalent experience.
  • Is passionate about Enterprise Portfolio Offices and understands the critical role governance plays in enabling strategic delivery.
  • Has a deep understanding of portfolio governance frameworks, lifecycle models and assurance processes.
  • Brings extensive experience in designing, implementing and embedding portfolio governance, standards and methodologies at scale.
  • Demonstrates excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience influencing and challenging at senior and executive levels.
  • Is a strong leader, able to provide clear direction, coaching and oversight to Analysts and wider delivery teams to ensure consistent adoption of governance standards.
  • Is flexible, dynamic and able to pivot quickly in response to changing organisational priorities, operating environments and strategic direction.
What You'll Get

A competitive salary of £60,000 - £70,000 dependent on experience and capability. As 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 thinking 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 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.

Portfolio Manager - NESO in Wokingham employer: National Energy System Operator Limited

At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. With competitive salaries, generous benefits including a flexible working environment, and a strong commitment to employee growth and development, NESO is dedicated to empowering our team members to make a meaningful impact in the transition to a sustainable energy future. Join us in shaping a cleaner, more affordable energy landscape while enjoying the unique advantages of working in vibrant locations like Wokingham and Warwick.

National Energy System Operator Limited

Contact Details:

National Energy System Operator Limited Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Portfolio Manager - NESO in Wokingham

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those already working at NESO. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could make all the difference.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching NESO’s projects and values. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills align with our mission of creating a sustainable energy future.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience in portfolio management can help NESO achieve its net zero goals. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Portfolio Manager - NESO in Wokingham

Portfolio Management
Governance Frameworks
Project Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Communication Skills
Leadership
Analytical Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in portfolio management and governance. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at NESO, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!

Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for clean energy and sustainable practices shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference, so share why you’re passionate about this role and the impact you hope to make.

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and how they relate to the key accountabilities of the Portfolio Manager role. We appreciate clarity and directness!

Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible through our website. This not only shows your eagerness but also gives us more time to review your application thoroughly!

How to prepare for a job interview at National Energy System Operator Limited

Know Your Governance Frameworks

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of portfolio governance frameworks and methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in past roles, as this will show your understanding of the critical role governance plays in strategic delivery.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in guiding teams through governance standards. Think about times when you provided direction or coaching to ensure consistent adoption of best practices.

Communicate Clearly and Confidently

Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be prepared to discuss how you've influenced stakeholders at senior levels and how you can foster a culture of excellence within a team.

Be Ready for Flexibility

The role requires someone who can pivot quickly in response to changing priorities. Think of examples from your past where you adapted to new challenges or changes in direction, and be ready to share these during the interview.