Senior Connections Contracts Specialist (Networks)

About Us

SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) is Northern Ireland's Transmission System Operator (TSO). We manage the electricity grid to ensure that power can flow from where it is generated to where it is needed. We are now transforming the power system for future generations. Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast-moving, collaborative and team orientated. Our culture is driven by performance, knowledge and continual development. Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland's reliance on fossil fuels and making decarbonisation a reality while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply.

The Role

As Transmission System Operator, SONI has responsibility for facilitating new connections onto the transmission system as well as planning upgrades to the electricity grid infrastructure. We have to facilitate more renewable energy to support the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy and the requirements of the Climate Change (NI) Act 2022 which set a legal target of 80% renewable energy usage by 2030. The Networks team in SONI is central in responding successfully to this transformational change and the increased complexities of planning a power system that supports a clean energy system in Northern Ireland through planning and delivering high voltage customer connections and transmission system infrastructure projects.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual who is keen to play a key role in shaping how the transmission grid in Northern Ireland will evolve to support the transformation of the power system and enable the transition to a low carbon energy future.

As Senior Connections Contracts Specialist, you will report to the Head of Networks and prepare and manage connection contracts for strategically significant projects connecting to the Northern Ireland transmission system such as large-scale generation, energy storage, demand and technologies that will enable the transition to a low carbon energy future. You will work in close collaboration with customers and industry stakeholders to seek opportunities to develop connection and charging policy and contractual terms to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Engaging directly with customers connecting to and using the transmission system to provide a high quality and effective customer journey and contract service.
• Preparing and managing Connection Offers and Connection Agreements for customers connecting projects directly to the transmission system and to the Distribution Network Owner (DNO).
• Preparing and issuing Transmission Use of System (TUoS) offers for customers using the transmission system.
• Monitoring contractual compliance to ensure SONI and its customers meet their contractual obligations.
• Working proactively with other team members and wider SONI teams to ensure delivery of connection contracts on time.
• Contributing to the development of SONI's Connections Policy and Transmission Connection Methodology Charging Statement.
• Collaborating effectively to continuously improve contracts and related processes.
• Acting as the main point of contact in SONI for customers connecting to the transmission system.
• Building strong and effective relationships with key stakeholders such as NIE Networks, the Utility Regulator and relevant government departments.
• Preparing and presenting papers for senior management and external stakeholders on connections related topics.
• Training and supporting other team members and contributing to a team culture that is solution focused.
• Supporting the Connections and Strategy Manager with other work as may be required.

What You'll Need

As a Senior Connections Contracts Specialist, you'll need:

Essential:

• University degree in a business, technical or engineering discipline, with a minimum of 4 years contract management experience.
• Skilled in building and maintaining strong relationships with customers and stakeholders.
• Strong customer and commercial awareness with experience in contract management.
• Demonstrable project management experience and working to tight deadlines.
• Excellent analysis, judgement and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Strong ability to guide, persuade and influence others.
• Experience in introducing innovative solutions to drive successful outcomes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong IT skills including experience with Microsoft Office packages.

Desirable:

• Experience of working within a similar regulated utility environment.
• Understanding of Transmission System Operator business activities.
• Understanding of generation, demand and enabling technologies connecting to the power system.
• Broad understanding of the technical and commercial aspects of the power industry.
• Knowledge of relevant industry regulations, licence, codes and policies.
• Formal Project Management qualification.

What You Will Get

This is an opportunity to lead and contribute to the advancement of a critical component of the energy infrastructure. The rewards package includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, eligibility for an annual performance related payment, private medical provision, competitive pension with employer matching arrangements, a variety of salary sacrifice schemes, together with hybrid working arrangements, flexible start and finish times, competitive holidays and complimentary car parking with electric charging point on site.

If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the electricity sector, we invite you to apply. Submit your application by uploading your CV with a cover letter (in one document). Please note that successful applicant(s) will be subject to Access NI/ International Security Check. Closing date for applications is 04 April 2025. We have a duty to prevent illegal working, and applicants must demonstrate they have a legal right to work in the UK. SONI is an equal opportunities employer. SONI IS NOT providing sponsorship for this role.