Head of HVDC Operations in Motherwell

Head of HVDC Operations in Motherwell

Motherwell Full-Time 450 - 450 £ / month (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead HVDC operations and shape the future of energy transmission in the UK.
  • Company: Join SP Energy Networks, a leader in renewable energy infrastructure.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonus, and extensive benefits including 36 days leave.
  • Other info: Diverse opportunities for career growth in a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's transition to Net Zero with cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: Seeking strategic leaders with HVDC experience and strong engineering backgrounds.

The predicted salary is between 450 - 450 £ per month.

Location

Eurocentral office base (with hybrid working), regular travel to sites across Scotland also required.

Salary

from £82,400 - £103,000 + annual bonus (up to 30%) + car allowance (£450 per month) + family private medical cover.

  • Permanent | Full-time
  • 37 hours per week

The energy landscape is changing at pace, and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology is playing a critical role in delivering the UK's transition to Net Zero.

At SP Energy Networks, we're investing at an unprecedented scale to build, operate and maintain the infrastructure that will connect renewable energy to homes and businesses for generations to come.

We're now seeking a Head of HVDC Operations to provide strategic leadership across our growing HVDC portfolio.

Reporting to the Transmission Operations Director, this newly created leadership role will oversee the operational performance, future readiness and long-term strategy for some of the UK's most significant electricity transmission assets, including Western Link and Eastern Green Link projects, while shaping the future operating model for forthcoming HVDC developments.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a function responsible for multi-billion-pound critical national infrastructure assets that sit at the heart of the UK's future energy system.

What You'll Be Doing

As Head of HVDC Operations, you'll provide strategic direction and leadership for SP Transmission's HVDC Operations function, ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient operation of existing assets whilst developing the capability, organisational structure and operational frameworks required to support future growth.

You'll

  • Define and deliver the long-term strategic vision for HVDC Operations, ensuring capability, resources and operational frameworks are aligned with future network requirements.
  • Lead the operational readiness and integration of Eastern Green Link 1 whilst supporting planning considerations for future HVDC developments, including EGL4 and future Western Link projects.
  • Provide executive leadership across a portfolio of HVDC converter stations, cable systems and associated infrastructure.
  • Drive industry-leading standards in safety, operational excellence, asset management, physical security and cyber resilience.
  • Hold accountability for operational performance, availability and reliability across the HVDC portfolio, ensuring strategic assets continue to support the UK's energy transition.
  • Lead financial and contractual governance across significant operational and maintenance programmes.
  • Develop long-term asset health and investment strategies to maintain system resilience and performance.
  • Build, lead and develop a high-performing specialist team capable of supporting an expanding HVDC asset portfolio.
  • Act as the senior escalation point for all HVDC operational matters, providing leadership during critical incidents and major events.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders including NESO, National Grid, Ofgem, contractors, OEMs and industry partners.
  • Collaborate with senior leaders across Operations, Engineering, Asset Management and Major Projects to shape the future of transmission operations.
  • What You'll Bring

We're looking for a strategic senior leader with strong engineering credibility, extensive HVDC experience and a proven track record of leading critical infrastructure operations.

You’ll have

  • A degree qualification (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering or a related engineering discipline, with Chartered Engineer status desirable.
  • Extensive experience in the management and operation of HVDC converter stations and associated transmission assets, with a strong understanding of HVDC technologies, systems, risks and performance drivers.
  • Demonstrable experience leading the operational strategy, maintenance, performance and asset management of complex converter station environments.
  • Significant senior leadership experience within an operational, engineering or asset-intensive environment.
  • Extensive experience managing complex, high-value infrastructure assets, major operational contracts and associated regulatory obligations.
  • Strong understanding of the commercial, regulatory and financial framework within the electricity transmission sector.
  • Experience leading organisational growth, transformation and capability development within a specialist engineering function.
  • Proven ability to develop and lead high-performing multidisciplinary teams whilst fostering a strong safety and performance culture.
  • Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with experience operating at senior executive, regulatory and industry level.
  • Strong risk management expertise, including the management of operational, physical and cyber risks associated with critical national infrastructure.
  • The ability to develop long-term strategic plans and successfully translate them into operational delivery and business outcomes.
  • What’s in it for you

As well as a competitive salary which is reviewed annually, you can also enjoy a number of other benefits.

With our pension scheme, we'll double match your contribution up to a company contribution of 10%.

At Scottish Power, we believe it's the little things we do in life that make a big difference.

From helping you look after your family's wellbeing, save for your future and take personal steps for climate action - our benefits are designed to help you do just that - so that you have everything you need to take care of your world - today and tomorrow.

That's why our benefits include

  • 36 days annual leave
  • Holiday purchase - perfect your work/life balance with extra annual leave
  • Share Incentive Plan and Sharesave Scheme
  • Payroll giving and charity matched funding
  • Technology Vouchers - save more and spread the cost of your technology purposes
  • Count us in - pledge to reduce carbon emissions and help fight climate change
  • Electric Vehicle Schemes - to help you transition to green/clean driving
  • Cycle to Work scheme and public transport season ticket loans
  • Options to purchase dental insurance, private medical insurance, health cash plan and annual health assessments
  • Life Assurance (4x salary)
  • Access to 'nudge' financial wellbeing support
  • Plus shopping, leisure, restaurant and gym discounts, and unique employee deals on travel insurance and more
  • Why SP Energy Networks

SP Energy Networks is part of the Iberdrola Group, one of the world’s largest integrated utility companies and a world leader in wind energy.

We keep electricity flowing to homes and businesses through Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales and in the North West of England.

We operate over 4000km of cables and lines that make-up the transmission network - connecting infrastructure like wind farms into the electricity system.

It's a role that puts us right at the heart of Scotland’s ambition to be Net Zero by 2045.

And we're taking it very seriously.

With diverse opportunities across our businesses and a commitment to invest in our own internal talent, Scottish Power can offer people real career opportunities that meet personal and professional goals, in a global organisation.

Inclusion, diversity, and a social purpose are at the heart of everything we do.

Together with our values, they bring us together into a stronger, more sustainable business with direct links to the communities we serve.

It takes all kinds of people to build a large-scale business like ours, so whatever your background, you'll fit right in.

We are committed to providing reasonable support or adjustments in our recruiting processes for candidates with disabilities, long term conditions, mental health conditions, or who are neurodivergent or require pregnancy-related support.

If you need support, please reach out to careers@scottishpower. com.

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Head of HVDC Operations in Motherwell employer: ScottishPower

ScottishPower is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its Glasgow HQ where innovation meets sustainability. With a strong focus on employee well-being, the company provides generous benefits including up to 36 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth within a global leader in renewable energy. Join a diverse team committed to making a positive impact while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a culture that values inclusion and personal development.

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Contact Details:

ScottishPower Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of HVDC Operations in Motherwell

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 ThroughScottishPower's Website

Don’t forget to apply directly through ScottishPower's website for the full-time Head of HVDC Operations 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 HVDC Operations in Motherwell

Strategic Leadership
HVDC Technology Expertise
Operational Performance Management
Asset Management
Financial Governance
Stakeholder Engagement
Risk Management

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 ScottishPower. 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 ScottishPower

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 ScottishPower.

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 ScottishPower.

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.