Role Title: Connections and Strategy Manager Reports to: Head of Networks Contract: Permanent Location:Belfast (Hybrid) Background SONI is Northern Irelands Transmission System Operator. We are the people behind Northern Irelands electricity grid. We operate the Northern Ireland power system with world leading levels of variable renewable generation, ensuring that everyone has power they need, when and where they need it. 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 to ensure we continue to have a resilient electricity supply to meet Northern Irelands future electricity needs to facilitate more renewable energy which is key to supporting the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy and the Climate Change (NI) Act 2022 which sets 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 in Northern Ireland. Role Description We are seeking a highly motivated individual who is keen to play a leading role in the delivery of new connections and strategic projects that will support the transformation of the power system and enable the transition to a low carbon energy future in Northern Ireland. As Connections and Strategy Manager, you will report to the Head of Networks and have responsibility for the end-to-end Connection Offer process; the execution of the commercial and contractual documents to give effect to the connection offer; and leading on strategic projects and business planning for the Networks team. Key responsibilities include: Organising the team to deliver connection offers for customers seeking connection to the transmission grid by providing early and ongoing customer engagement, managing SONIs end-to-end Connection Offer process, working closely with our power system planners and NIE Networks on the development of transmission connection design solutions, and the execution of the commercial and contractual documents to give effect to the connection offer. Maintaining, developing and applying Connections Policy and Transmission Connection Charing Methodology Statement (TCCMS) to meet evolving industry and system needs. Driving the development and implementation of systems, processes and policy change to optimise the Connection Offer Process in line with the SONI Strategy. Leading strategic workstreams by providing technical and policy direction in areas such as Transmission Cluster Policy; the implementation of transmission connection contestability in collaboration with NIE Networks; offshore policy; moving to a plan-led approach to connections; Firm Access Quantity (FAQ) policy; and other relevant areas as the need arises. Development and review of departmental policies in line with our licences, the Grid Code, relevant NI, UK and EU legislation such as the Clean Energy Package (CEP). Supporting the Head of Networks with Business planning activities, including SONIs Price Control, and managing budget for own team. Leading effective engagement with our partners, NIE Networks, through the Transmission Interface Arrangements (TIA). Building strong interfaces and productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders such as the Utility Regulator, government departments and industry in the context of SONIs strategy, ethos and values. Promoting a culture of excellent customer service and engagement whilst meeting our licence obligations. Fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and agility with a particular focus on delivery to meet our collective challenge of transforming the power system. Promote continued professional development within the team through effective performance management. Exemplifying and role model the values and behaviours expected of a leader in the organisation and support the process of cultural transformation within the business. Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience Engineering degree or equivalent, with at least 6 years relevant experience with a holistic technical understanding of the electricity industry. Strong commercial focus, understanding of contract management and connection charging mechanisms. Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of relevant regulations, licence, standards, codes and policies relating to connecting to the power system. Understanding of generation, demand and enabling technologies connecting to the power system. Track record of leading the delivery of strategic workstreams, policies or plans with a focus on innovative solutions with an ability to drive successful outcomes. Ability to understand the needs of customers and to service them appropriately with excellent understanding of the customer journey. Ability to lead a team, develop and coach others and ability to deliver under tight pressure. Excellent interpersonal skills, organisational skills and strong track record of delivery. Change oriented, resilient, innovative and comfortable with ambiguity. Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to persuade and influence others. Ability to work collaboratively with and through others, including with external stakeholders. Self-motivation, enthusiasm and capable of delivering in context of changing parameters/requirements. Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience Contract management including experience of dealing with contractual and commercial challenges within a regulated utility. Knowledge of the power system. Knowledge of the Transmission Interface Arrangements. Completed Masters or PhD in relevant discipline or attained CEng qualification. If you have the skills and experience to succeed in this role, please upload your application (CV with cover letter).Closing date is 09 December 2024. SONI is an equal opportunities employer. Skills: Manager Connections Strategies