Head of Corporate Affairs Applications are invited for the role of Head of Corporate Affairs for SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland). The role reports to the SONI Chief Executive. SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) is responsible for the safe, secure, economic, and reliable operation of the transmission system in Northern Ireland under licence from the Utility Regulator and via a joint venture is responsible for running the all-island Single Electricity Market (SEM). As Transmission System Operator, SONI has responsibility for planning upgrades to the high voltage electricity grid infrastructure 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. SONIs corporate strategy 2025 responds to this once in a generation transformational change and the increased complexity of operating today, positioning SONI as a trusted advisor to government and regulators, and envisions SONIs focus on accelerated delivery, innovative operations, with engagement and communication with stakeholders at their core. The Head of Corporate Affairs will have a pivotal role in the achievement of this ambition and will operate at the centre of the business providing direct strategic and operational support to the SONI Chief Executive, Board and leadership team. Operating and influencing strategically, the role holder will also lead SONIs internal and external engagement with a wide variety of key stakeholders, to build understanding of the role of SONI as Transmission System Operator and Market Operator and support the delivery of NI energy policy. Critically, the role holder will be an expert communications advisor and strategic thinker and will also take the lead on major cross-directorate projects and workplace engagement. The role holder will also oversee the functioning of the Office of the Chief Executive and provide cross-directorate strategic counsel to the SONI Executive Team and Head of Functions during a period of significant sectoral and organisational change. This is an exciting and challenging time to work for SONI as they undergo a major once-in-a-generation transformation and deliver on their new strategy, the purpose of which is to transform the power system for future generations as part of a whole energy system approach and a whole society effort, to meet Northern Irelands renewable energy and net zero ambitions and realise the potential of a cleaner, affordable, more secure energy future for everyone. To download the full candidate brief, including job description and personnel specification visit Clarendon Executive website. For a confidential conversation please contact Claire McKee at Clarendon Executive, recruitment partners for SONI on this assignment. Closing date for receipt of CV and cover letter is 5pm Wednesday 19th March 2025.