At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning and operational assurance for Northern Ireland's electricity transmission system.
- Company: Join SONI, the backbone of Northern Ireland's energy grid, driving a sustainable future.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working, enhanced holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to transforming the energy landscape.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on energy sustainability while working in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering with 8+ years in power system operations and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Reports to: Head of Control Centre Operations
Location: Hybrid, Belfast
Who We Are
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.
The Role
The Security & Strategy Manager plays a central role in shaping and coordinating the strategic, procedural and assurance framework that underpins the operation of the Northern Ireland transmission system. The role focuses on providing leadership across Transmission and Generation outage planning, operational policy, and organisational readiness ensuring SONI's operational approach continues to evolve in line with increasing system complexity, regulatory expectations and the energy transition.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and maintenance of system operations strategy, ensuring alignment with SONI's licence obligations, regulatory requirements and long-term system needs.
- Oversee the review and monitoring of plant margins, system demand forecast, renewable forecasts and generation to ensure security standards are maintained at all times.
- Oversee short to long-term operational planning frameworks, including outage planning strategy, forecast assurance approaches and operational risk management.
- Own and coordinate operational policies, standards and procedures, ensuring they remain fit for purpose as the power system evolves.
- Provide strategic oversight of operational assurance activities, including compliance monitoring, internal reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Act as a senior focal point for cross-organisational coordination on control centre operations strategy with EirGrid, NIE Networks, generators, system service providers and regulators.
- Support the Head of Control Centre Operations in translating strategic objectives into clear priorities and delivery plans for operational teams.
- Represent SONI in key external forums and engagements relating to control centre operations policy, planning and future capability.
- Lead or contribute to reviews, simulations and exercises designed to test and strengthen operational preparedness and resilience.
- Provide coaching and guidance to colleagues on strategic, procedural and regulatory aspects of system operations.
The role holder will participate in an availability rota for NI System Operations and will be required to provide on-call support outside standard working hours in line with a rota schedule.
Critical Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential:
- Degree in engineering (or HNC with relevant experience); typically, with 8+ years extensive technical experience of power system operations.
- Detailed knowledge of the Northern Ireland Transmission system.
- Excellent understanding of all aspects of safe, secure, reliable and economic operation of a transmission system.
- Strong organisational and operational planning skills with the ability to plan and manage operational risk.
- Demonstrates ability to provide leadership, make informed decisions and deliver outcomes within demanding operational environments and timescales.
- Working knowledge of the Energy Management System, control centre security tools, and scheduling/dispatch tools.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, confident in communicating technical concepts to lay audiences and technical experts alike.
- Demonstrates ability to lead through change, adapt to evolving operational requirements and identify opportunities for improvement in complex environments.
- Ability to build effective working relationships, influence decision-making, and facilitate constructive resolution of differing viewpoints when required.
Desirable:
- Experience working across organisational boundaries within the electricity sector or other regulated infrastructure industries.
- Familiarity with regulatory engagement and external stakeholder management.
- Experience supporting change programmes or organisational transformation initiatives.
Why join us?
- Play a vital role in shaping sustainable energy projects that benefit communities and the environment.
- 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).
- Enhanced holidays, maternity and paternity leave and wellbeing days.
- Access salary sacrifice schemes (such as cycle to work, EV scheme), free car parking, onsite EV charging and complimentary lunch.
- Access professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
We offer an inclusive culture that values diversity, supports flexible working and empowers you to grow. We know flexible working means different things to different people. Contact us if you would like to talk about how this role could work for you.
If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the energy sector, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping the future of SONI and delivering a cleaner and more secure energy future for everyone living in Northern Ireland.
Closing date for applications is 7 August 2026. SONI reserves the right to extend this deadline where necessary to maximise the applicant pool. Submit your application by uploading your CV with a cover letter (in one document).
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. As a STEM organisation, we are continuing to strengthen gender diversity across our engineering and technology roles and welcome applications from women who want to build and apply their expertise to Northern Ireland's energy system. We have a duty to prevent illegal working and applicants must demonstrate they have a legal right to work in the UK. SONI is not providing sponsorship for this vacancy.
Security & Strategy Manager TLNT1_NI in Antrim employer: SONI Ltd
SONI is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Belfast that prioritises safety, security, and reliability in the energy sector. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and extensive professional development opportunities, all while contributing to the vital mission of transforming Northern Ireland's energy system for a sustainable future. Join a supportive team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on communities and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Security & Strategy Manager TLNT1_NI in Antrim
✨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 ThroughSONI Ltd's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through SONI Ltd's website for the full-time Security & Strategy Manager TLNT1_NI 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 Security & Strategy Manager TLNT1_NI in Antrim
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 SONI Ltd. 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 SONI Ltd
✨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 SONI Ltd.
✨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 SONI Ltd.
✨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.
