Role Title: Future Networks Manager Reports to: Head of Networks Contract: Permanent Location: Belfast (Hybrid) Background SONI is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator. We are the people behind Northern Ireland’s 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 Ireland’s 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 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 in Northern Ireland. As Future Networks Manager, you will report to the Head of Networks and have responsibility for delivering grid solutions for new connections and network reinforcement projects through leading the technical analysis of the power system and optioneering of grid solutions in a coordinated, efficient and economic manner that meets the needs of Northern Ireland into the future. Key responsibilities include: Organising the team to deliver technical analysis and optioneering for customers seeking connection to the transmission grid; working closely with the Connections and Strategy Manager to ensure timely delivery of transmission connection offers in line with the Transmission System Security and Planning Standards (TSSPS) and the Transmission Connection Charging Methodology Statement (TCCMS); and provide technical expertise to Grid Code pre-energisation activities for new connections. Organising the team to deliver technical analysis and optioneering for network reinforcement projects in line with SONI’s Grid Development Framework and the TSSPS, including the development of needs and options reports with Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA), taking these projects through to Transmission Network Pre-construction Project (TNPP) submission to the Utility Regulator and obtaining internal capital approval. Supporting the SONI-NIE Networks Joint Project Management Office (JPMO) to ensure efficient and coordinated delivery of grid infrastructure throughout the Grid Development Framework, including identifying and implementing improvements in the early stages of grid development. Delivering the Transmission Development Plan (TDP) NI and Transmission Investment Plan (TIP) in close collaboration with NIE Networks. Providing technical leadership to the development of transmission strategy. Delivering Tomorrows Energy Scenarios (TES) System Needs Assessment (SNA) to support a more plan-led approach to power system planning. 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 SONI’s strategy, ethos and values. 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 and managing budget for own team. 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 and the power system. Excellent proficiency of technical power system analysis and optioneering for electricity network projects, including knowledge of transmission equipment. Demonstrated knowledge and application of relevant regulations, licence, technical standards, codes and policies relating to transmission system planning. Understanding of generation, demand and enabling technologies connecting to the power system. Track record of timely delivery of complex projects, with a focus on innovative solutions and an ability to drive successful outcomes. 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 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 Experience of transmission design. Demonstrated experience of gaining Utility Regulator approvals. Knowledge of the Transmission Interface Arrangements. Competent in dynamic, harmonic or techno-economic power system analysis. 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.