At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of the UK energy sector through policy and regulatory transformation.
- Company: Join Northern Powergrid, a leader in smart, low-carbon energy solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension scheme, performance bonuses, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Engage with government and industry stakeholders in a dynamic, influential role.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on energy policy and influence key decision-makers.
- Qualifications: Experience in energy regulation, strong communication skills, and project management expertise.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 80000 £ per year.
Do you want to shape the future of the UK energy sector and play a leading role in one of the most significant policy and regulatory transformations happening today? The industry is evolving rapidly driven by major investment, smart technology innovation and the accelerating push toward low‑carbon solutions. At Northern Powergrid, we’re not just responding to this change, we’re influencing it. As the electricity distributor for 3.9 million homes and businesses across the Northeast, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, we’re building a smarter, cleaner and more resilient network for the future.
As we continue transforming our business to support the region’s net‑zero ambitions, we’re looking for an experienced Senior Policy Manager to join our Economics, Performance & Planning Directorate. This is a highly influential role at the heart of the energy policy landscape. You’ll engage with government, regulators and industry stakeholders, shaping the policy and regulatory frameworks that underpin the UK’s energy transition. You’ll lead the development of our policy strategy, guide reform across the business, and ensure our organisation is positioned to deliver the best outcomes for customers, communities and the wider system.
If you're motivated by policy, regulation and strategic influence and you want to make a meaningful impact on the future of energy this role gives you the platform to do exactly that. Ready to influence the future of energy? Let’s talk.
Along with a competitive salary of £65,000 up to £80,000, we also offer great benefits such as:
- Double‑matched pension scheme of 12% employer & 6% employee
- Annual performance bonus up to 20%
- 25 days holiday (rising with length of service), plus bank holidays
- One paid volunteering day each year to support a local community, environmental or social initiative during work time
- Eye Care and Safety vouchers
- Loyal Service Awards
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the implementation of relevant reform through engagement with colleagues / the executive team, ensuring internal company policies and practices reflect the changing external policy landscape.
- Lead and influence key issues such as network constraints and competition in connections, including informal dialogue and formal consultations with stakeholders and policy makers.
- Prepare high‑quality policy documents, submissions, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, including the senior leadership team, the regulator, and other stakeholders.
- Develop, execute, and manage commercial and policy relationships and partnerships directly and in collaboration with the wider business.
- Act as key contact for the executive level Engagement Leadership Team (ELT), ensuring effectiveness of the policy development and public affairs/regulatory function.
- Continuously advising on emerging policy issues.
- The ability to clearly and concisely communicate complex subject matters – both orally and in writing – to influence key decision‑makers.
- Experience in identifying, analysing and articulating complex problems, and developing solutions with researched evidence.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
- Strong leadership skills (preferably including line management) and cross‑functional experience, with the ability to manage resourcing to optimise team performance.
- Great interpersonal skills, having the ability to forge strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
Qualifications and Experience
- Experience in and understanding the electricity system, energy regulation or energy market, with a record of delivering to a high standard.
- Experience engaging with policy makers and industry parties to influence policy development and deliver projects.
- Qualified to degree level (or equivalent).
- Project management experience – converting high‑level policy and direction into realistic internal deliverables and action plans.
- Experience of leading change initiatives across an organisation.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Applicants are considered on the basis of their suitability for the post irrespective of sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender re‑assignment, race, age or disability, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
Senior Policy Manager employer: Northern Powergrid
At Northern Powergrid, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer committed to shaping the future of the UK energy sector. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and inclusivity, providing employees with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With competitive benefits, including a generous pension scheme and dedicated volunteering time, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact while supporting the region's net-zero ambitions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Manager
✨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 ThroughNorthern Powergrid's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through Northern Powergrid's website for the full-time Senior Policy Manager 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 Senior Policy Manager
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 Northern Powergrid. 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 Northern Powergrid
✨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 Northern Powergrid.
✨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 Northern Powergrid.
✨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.