We have an exciting opportunity for a Strategic Engagement Officer to join our Distribution System Operator (DSO) team. The role will be based in either Swansea or Cardiff depot. National Grid’s DSO is responsible for planning and operating the smart and innovative electricity system of the future in the Midlands, South-West and South Wales, ensuring the right network is in place to serve customers. The energy needs of customers across the region are changing and the speed of change will accelerate over the next decade. In this role you will be the external face of the DSO, collaborating with local stakeholders to facilitate progress on local energy initiatives within our South Wales coverage region.
Main Responsibilities
- Proactively engage with strategic stakeholders of the DSO, including those involved in Welsh Local Area Energy Planning (Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Partnerships, Combined Authorities, Net Zero Hubs and Welsh Government).
- Engage in external events and bilateral meetings, preparing content to represent company positions.
- Monitor progress of Local Area Energy Planning and local energy projects, identifying where stakeholders need extra support from the DSO.
- Share and promote best practice on energy planning and delivery between regional stakeholders.
- Engage with internal colleagues to align on stakeholder engagement, ensuring a consistent and efficient experience for stakeholders.
- Contribute to the organisational use of Welsh language in external engagement.
- Support the Strategic Engagement Manager with flagship local energy initiatives in the region.
- Own the relationship with key Welsh strategic stakeholders, including identifying and resolving issues they experience in their interaction with the DSO and wider National Grid.
Ideal Candidate
- Skilled in stakeholder engagement, with a proven track record of influencing and collaborating across multiple organisations to achieve shared business priorities.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to communicate proficiently with key stakeholders at all levels, both internally and externally.
- Capable of building strong and effective relationships with stakeholders.
- Comfortable working independently and proactively, organising meetings with local authorities and seeking out relevant contacts.
- Confident in presenting to different stakeholder groups, both online and face‑to‑face.
- Proficient in developing PowerPoint presentations.
- Welsh language proficiency would be advantageous for some role responsibilities, but is not essential.
Applicants may not possess all the skills required at present but should have the confidence and ability to reach the necessary standards with in‑role training.
Qualifications and Requirements
- A full Driving Licence is required and some business travel is expected to meet stakeholders in the South Wales region and throughout the NGED area.
- Depending on experience, you may initially be appointed at a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are completed.
- The role is subject to a satisfactory Barring Service (DBS) check; different levels of screening and vetting may be required.
Benefits
- 26 days paid leave plus 8 bank holidays, up to 28 days with continuous service.
- Competitive contributory pension scheme (we double match your contributions up to a maximum of 12%).
- Annual Share Save plan.
- Contributory private healthcare scheme for you and your family.
- Support via our Employee Assistance Programme, including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services.
- Free on‑site parking at all our main sites.
Equal Opportunity and Legal Requirements
As an equal opportunities employer committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, we celebrate individual differences and actively bring in employees from diverse backgrounds. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points‑based immigration system. In exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, we may consider offering sponsorship. Recruitment correspondence will be sent by email; please check your email account, including spam/junk folders, after the closing date.
