At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative energy projects and drive innovation in Northern Ireland's electricity grid.
- Company: SONI, the trusted operator behind Northern Ireland's electricity system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, private medical cover, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to decarbonisation and community benefit.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy and shape the future of power systems.
- Qualifications: Senior management experience in energy or utility sectors with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Reporting to: SONI Chief Executive
Contract: Permanent
Location: Belfast, with occasional travel
Applications are invited for the role of Director of Networks and Innovation. The Director of Networks and Innovation will be responsible for providing strategic leadership to vision, direct and drive a diverse portfolio of change programmes needed to realise SONI's vision and strategic objectives and help to further establish SONI's trusted advisor status in the energy sector.
About SONI
SONI is Northern Ireland's Transmission System Operator. We are the people behind Northern Ireland's electricity grid. We make sure that every home, business, school, hospital, factory and farm has power - when and where they need it. Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast-moving, collaborative and team orientated. Our culture is driven by continual development, knowledge and teamwork. Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland's reliance on fossil fuels and transforming the energy system to make decarbonisation a reality while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply.
Role Profile
The Director of Networks & Innovation will lead the programme of visioning and delivering a power system for the future; a once in a generation transformation of Northern Ireland's high voltage transmission grid and the development of world leading operating technology and electricity markets. The Networks & Innovation directorate is central to achieving the future ambitions of SONI on multiple levels.
The role holder will be responsible for a number of business functions including Networks (Grid), Digital Innovation, Future Markets and Future Power Systems. The teams within this Directorate develop scenarios, options, and optimum pathways to ensure that SONI's strategic ambitions are realised, future demand for clean electricity is met, whilst at the same time ensuring that the power system remains stable and reliable during the energy transition.
Networks Overview
The Director of Networks & Innovation will manage the team responsible for planning the development of the high voltage transmission grid, bringing large scale infrastructure projects such as new power lines and substations from conception, feasibility through the planning system to the point of handover to NIE Networks for construction. The projects in SONI's Transmission Development Plan represent in excess of £500m capital investment over the next 10 years and are time critical to allow the flow of renewable energy as we undertake a once-in-a-generation upgrade to Northern Ireland's transmission system.
Close collaboration and engagement with stakeholders such as the Utility Regulator, NIE Networks, connecting customers, planning authorities, government and communities is a key feature of this role.
Future Power Systems Overview
The role holder will create vision and drive the change programme to transform the power system of the future, optimising current technologies such as energy storage, onshore wind and solar, evaluate and support the market entry of new technologies such as offshore wind and long duration energy storage.
Working closely with the Operations Directorate, the role holder will lead the implementation of the operational policy roadmap to develop and deliver a power system for the future that can support up to 100% renewables on an instantaneous basis.
Future Markets Overview
The role holder will lead on sponsoring the evolution of the energy market with the Future Power Markets function driving the development of market structures and policies aligned with Northern Ireland's clean energy goals.
Digital Innovation Overview
The Directorate will vision the digital future of the organisation, develop the relevant strategies and cost effectively deliver the technology and systems to realise the future vision.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Support the CEO and partner with the business to enable delivery of SONI's strategy.
- Develop and roll out of Networks, Digital, Innovation and Research strategies and associated business plans.
- Build, lead, motivate and engage a high performing team within Networks & Innovation to deliver on the expectations of the business.
- Help to secure new regulatory funding for the business, managing relationships with the Utility Regulatory and Departmental officials as appropriate.
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory obligations for the company.
Essential requirements:
- Demonstrable experience at senior management level, reporting to Executive and/or Board level in a complex energy or other utility/infrastructure delivery environment.
- Experience overseeing the successful delivery of major physical infrastructure programmes including awareness of the statutory planning and consenting process.
- Experienced leader, with strong organisational, planning and process management skills.
Desirable requirements:
- Experience of working in the electricity industry; and experience of working and delivering in a regulatory business model.
Remunerations and Benefits
Enjoy a competitive salary, performance-related bonus, private medical cover, and pension matching. Benefit from flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options (3 days office / 2 days home). Access professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
SONI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and everyone can thrive.
Director of Networks and Innovation in Antrim employer: SONI Ltd
SONI is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Belfast that prioritises safety, innovation, and sustainability. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and extensive professional development opportunities, all while contributing to the vital transformation of Northern Ireland's energy system. Join a passionate team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the future of energy, where your expertise will help shape a cleaner, more secure power supply for generations to come.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Networks and Innovation in Antrim
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the energy sector! Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Don’t just wait for interviews to show what you know. Share your insights on platforms like LinkedIn or industry forums. This not only positions you as a thought leader but also attracts attention from potential employers.
✨Prepare for Informal Chats
Sometimes, the best way to land a job is through casual conversations. Reach out to contacts for coffee chats or informational interviews. It’s a great way to learn more about companies and express your interest without the pressure of a formal interview.
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website. It shows your enthusiasm and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Networks and Innovation in Antrim
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Networks and Innovation role. Highlight your relevant experience in energy, infrastructure, and leadership to show us you’re the perfect fit for SONI.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see how you've led teams and managed projects in the past. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire and develop multidisciplinary teams while achieving operational excellence.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at SONI.
How to prepare for a job interview at SONI Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into SONI's mission and recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their strategic objectives, especially around decarbonisation and innovation in the energy sector. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead diverse teams and manage large-scale projects. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led initiatives in complex environments, focusing on collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
✨Think Future-Focused
SONI is all about transforming the energy landscape. Be ready to discuss your vision for future power systems and how you would drive innovation within the organisation. Highlight any experience you have with emerging technologies or market structures that align with their clean energy goals.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in SONI's challenges and opportunities. Ask about their approach to integrating new technologies or how they envision the future of the electricity market in Northern Ireland. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
