At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy changes to transform GB's energy connections and support the transition to net zero.
- Company: Join NESO, a key player in creating a sustainable energy future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, 26 days leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of energy transformation and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and stakeholder engagement is essential.
- Other info: Flexible working options available in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 68000 £ per year.
About the role
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.
The GB Connections process is undergoing significant transformation to enable the government’s Clean Power by 2030 target. In December 2024, NESO published policy proposals that would revolutionise how customers connect to the grid.
The Policy & Change team is responsible for turning the new design into operational reality. Sitting between Strategy, Change Delivery, Operational Teams and IT, we translate policy and strategic frameworks into robust processes that can be easily understood and used by our customers and operational colleagues. We work with Networks partners (Transmission & Distribution) and ensure NESO’s customers are engaged throughout the process.
As a Connections Senior Policy & Change Lead, you’ll be based within the Transmission Policy Change team within the Connections Directorate that manages the connection of generation and demand to GB’s high voltage electricity network. You’ll therefore be at the forefront of accelerating the energy transition to net zero.
This role can be based from Wokingham, Warwick or Glasgow, and we continue to offer hybrid working from office and home. We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements.
About us
National Energy System Operator (NESO) has a key role to play in tackling climate change by transitioning GB’s electricity system to net zero. We already operate the fastest decarbonising electricity system in the world, with an ambition for zero carbon power operation by 2030 when there is sufficient renewable generation. We are also providing advice to the Government on achieving a decarbonised power system by 2030.
So, join the energy transformation and help shape the future. Your energy, our future, together.
Key Accountabilities
- As a Connections Senior Policy & Change Lead you will identify and develop the tactical policy changes needed to facilitate Connections Reform and CP30.
- You will work closely with internal and external stakeholders. You will lead on planning, coordinating and implementing these tactical changes.
- You will lead and embed the agreed principles to carry out readiness checks, land rights and planning status checks as set out in the Gate 2 criteria of the Connections Design Methodology.
- You will collaborate across the program with a wide and diverse team to deliver the reform agenda and embed continuous improvement.
- You will train, support and facilitate learning across the policy team to embed best practice in delivering readiness checks.
- As required, you will draft internal materials such as SOPs, guidance notes, training material, and external materials such as customer webinar packs, inputs into customer newsletters and guidance to support customers through their connections journey.
- You will identify future gaps, identify the actions needed to resolve, develop and manage the plans, deliver papers and briefing notes for senior decision-makers.
- You will help NESO’s external stakeholders understand the progress of Connections Reform through simple and compelling communication.
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 with:
- Technical knowledge (desirable but not essential)
- Knowledge of arrangements for connecting major generation and demand to the network
- Significant experience in developing Policy changes and working in a major program environment and ideally, with experience of Transmission Electricity Network Development.
- Understanding of and knowledge of the legal and regulatory parameters that NESO work within, including the range of statutory powers available, understanding how these then relate to the relevant connections project strategy and approach.
- Desirable - knowledge of the consenting regimes and land rights processes relevant to complex projects.
- Analytical Thinking: Proven ability to use quantitative and qualitative evidence to develop a thoughtful and independent viewpoint.
- Ability to analyse and present complex issues to audiences with varying levels of familiarity in power systems and power markets.
- Proficiency in the use of excel.
- Communication and Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent written and verbal communication to a diverse audience including senior stakeholders internal and external.
- Excellent interpersonal, influencing and communication skills to ensure effective engagement with all relevant stakeholders (internally and externally) to gain buy in to deliver program objectives.
- Lead and own key relationships with network to delivery policy change initiatives and influence strategic direction of the change.
- Project management Flexibility and agility to manage a wide range of issues at the same time and to prioritise use of resources.
- Own and accountable for identifying risks related to your portfolio of work and input into wider PMO documents promptly to a high standard.
What you’ll get
A competitive salary between £62,000 - £68,000pa – dependent on experience and capability. As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on company performance, 26 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%.
As we work towards creating a cleaner, greener, and more affordable future for all, we also work towards creating a place for our teammates to belong, with professional and personal growth and positive well-being.
More Information
This role closes on 19th February 2026 at 23:59, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
We work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value and develop our people. Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.
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.
Senior Policy and Change Officer - NESO in Royal Leamington Spa employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy and Change Officer - NESO in Royal Leamington Spa
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the energy sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meet-ups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Policy and Change Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your experience in policy development and change management. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this to demonstrate how you can contribute to NESO's mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to NESO directly through our website and express your interest in the role. A little initiative can go a long way in making a great first impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching NESO’s recent projects and policies. Understand the challenges they face in the energy transition and think about how your skills can help tackle these issues. This will show you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy and Change Officer - NESO in Royal Leamington Spa
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Policy and Change Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what NESO is looking for.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of stakeholder engagement, emphasise your written and verbal communication skills. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated complex ideas in the past, as this will resonate well with us.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant, and make sure your key achievements stand out. We want to see your impact without wading through unnecessary details.
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 enthusiasm but also gives you a better chance of being considered!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest policy proposals and changes related to the Connections Reform. Familiarise yourself with the key points of the Clean Power by 2030 target and how NESO plans to achieve it. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss how you would engage with both internal and external stakeholders. Think about examples from your past experiences where you successfully influenced or collaborated with others. Being able to articulate your approach to stakeholder engagement will be crucial.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Be ready to showcase your analytical thinking. Prepare to discuss how you’ve used quantitative and qualitative evidence in previous roles to inform policy changes or project decisions. Bring examples that highlight your problem-solving abilities and how you present complex issues clearly.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice your communication skills, especially when explaining technical concepts to a diverse audience. You might be asked to present a complex issue during the interview, so think about how you can simplify your message while still being informative. Confidence in your communication will leave a lasting impression.