At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and maintenance for cutting-edge HVDC systems across the UK and Belgium.
- Company: Join Nemo Link, a pioneering joint venture transforming international electricity interconnection.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, private medical insurance, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with a commitment to diversity and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of clean energy while leading high-performing, diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in engineering operations and asset management required.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 85000 £ per year.
About the role
We're looking for a senior leader to join Nemo Link and play a critical role in shaping the future of international electricity interconnection. Nemo Link is a pioneering joint venture between National Grid and Elia, connecting the UK and Belgium. Since entering operation in 2019, it has set industry benchmarks for availability, innovation, and safety - being Europe's first Cap and Floor interconnector, the first HVDC VSC system, and the first 400kV XLPE cable installation.
As Head of Converter Operations & Maintenance, you'll take accountability for the safety, performance, and reliability of both converter stations (UK and Belgium). You'll lead high-performing, multinational teams and set the strategic and operational direction to ensure Nemo Link continues to deliver exceptional results and supports the transition to a cleaner energy future.
What you'll be doing:
- Provide strategic, operational, and technical leadership across converter station operations, maintenance, and asset management, ensuring high performance, reliability, and continuous improvement.
- Lead and develop multi-disciplinary teams, driving accountability, fostering a zero-harm safety culture, and acting as the key escalation point for operational decisions.
- Deliver asset health, maintenance, and compliance strategies, including regulatory and cyber security requirements, to maximise availability and ensure resilience.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including National Grid and Elia, to share best practice, drive innovation, and deliver consumer value.
- Champion operational excellence, business change, and emergency response readiness across the organisation.
About you
You're an experienced senior leader with a strong background in engineering operations and asset management. You thrive in complex, high-value environments and bring a clear focus on safety, performance, and people leadership. You’ll also bring:
- Extensive experience leading multi-disciplinary operational teams.
- Strong technical understanding of HVDC systems, high-voltage substations, and/or subsea cabling.
- Proven ability to manage high-value budgets, contracts, and supplier relationships.
- Experience working with international stakeholders, joint ventures, or regulated environments.
- A strong track record in safety leadership and operational excellence.
- Excellent influencing, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to lead, coach, and inspire teams across multiple locations.
What's in it for you?
Salary between £85,000 p.a. and £100,000 p.a. depending on experience. As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal and company performance of up to 40% - a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. You will also receive private medical insurance and the option to a full EV company car or cash alternative. Additionally, you will have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
More Information
We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates - we make appointments purely on merit, assessed against objective selection criteria. We support flexible working and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process should you have any physical or mental impairment which may affect your ability to participate in the process.
Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system. However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
The closing date for this position is Friday 10th July, please ensure we have received your application by this date.
Head of Operations & Maintenance HVDC in Warwick employer: National Grid
Nemo Link, a pioneering joint venture between National Grid and Elia, offers an exceptional work environment for the Head of Operations & Maintenance HVDC role in Sandwich, Kent. With a strong focus on safety, innovation, and employee development, we provide competitive salaries, generous bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including a double-matched pension scheme and private medical insurance. Our inclusive culture encourages collaboration across international teams, making it an ideal place for leaders passionate about shaping the future of energy interconnection.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations & Maintenance HVDC in Warwick
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✨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 Grid's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through National Grid's website for the full-time Head of Operations & Maintenance HVDC 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 Head of Operations & Maintenance HVDC in Warwick
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 Grid. 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 Grid
✨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 Grid.
✨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 Grid.
✨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.
