At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of energy strategies for the North East and Yorkshire region.
- Company: Join NESO, a key player in the UK's energy transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and great perks.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team driving climate change solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy planning in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in the energy sector and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
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. One of the RESP regions is the North East and Yorkshire, encompassing the North East, Tees Valley, North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. Our North East and Yorkshire-based team will work with other NESO teams and with organisations at a local level (‘local actors’), including local government and gas and electricity networks, in developing the RESP. The purpose of the North East and Yorkshire Strategic Lead is to lead aspects of developing the North East and Yorkshire RESP. This role will include a weekly team day in our Leeds office. Some travel will be expected (e.g., to NESO Warwick Office for team workshops or within the region to meet with key stakeholders). We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements.
Key Accountabilities
- The Strategic Lead role will be focused on supporting and gaining input from stakeholders in the region. Having an understanding and lived experience of the North East and Yorkshire will be key – as will having complementary energy expertise and experience to allow the North East and Yorkshire team to reflect the nation’s diverse society, environment and energy planning needs.
- To represent NESO’s national/regional energy planning function at strategic level and deputise for the North East and Yorkshire RESP manager.
- To engage with specific key regional stakeholders within 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 North East and Yorkshire RESP Strategic Board, working groups and other regional stakeholders to progress the RESP.
- To implement relevant parts of the RESP methodology in North East and Yorkshire and contribute to continuous development and consultation.
- To be the subject matter expert in understanding specific aspects of North East and Yorkshire’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 you are 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.
About You
To deliver RESP requires a diverse team made up of individuals with a wide range of skills and knowledge which are unlikely to be present in a single individual. 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 Local Authorities and/or energy distribution companies, ideally in the North East and Yorkshire.
- 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.
What You’ll Get
A competitive salary of £55000-£65000 p.a. dependent on experience and capability. As well as your base salary, NESO’s core benefits are the essential perks and advantages that form part of your employee package.
- Bonus based on company performance.
- 26 days annual leave as standard.
- Competitive contributory pension scheme where we 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.
Benefits
NESO’s flexible benefits programme provides you with more flexibility around your health, lifestyle and protection benefits, including the following:
- 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 public value. The time to deliver is now. Join the energy transformation and help shape the future. Together, we can build a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Great Britain.
More Information
This role closes at 23:59 on the date displayed on the top of this advert. Interviews will be held w.c. 6th July 2026. We encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary. We are 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. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
North East and Yorkshire Regional Energy Strategic Planning Lead in Leeds employer: National Energy System Operator
At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for those passionate about energy transformation in the North East and Yorkshire. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, offering flexible working arrangements and a competitive benefits package that includes generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Join us in shaping a sustainable energy future while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a dynamic team dedicated to making a real impact in the community.
Contact Details:
National Energy System Operator Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land North East and Yorkshire Regional Energy Strategic Planning Lead in Leeds
✨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 ThroughNational Energy System Operator's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through National Energy System Operator's website for the full-time North East and Yorkshire Regional Energy Strategic Planning Lead 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 North East and Yorkshire Regional Energy Strategic Planning Lead in Leeds
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 National Energy System Operator. 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 National Energy System Operator
✨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 National Energy System Operator.
✨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 National Energy System Operator.
✨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.
