Job Description As the Head of Whole Plant Performance, you will oversee the integration and performance of all systems within the STEP prototype, ensuring they align with ambitious program goals. This includes generating significant electrical power, producing fusion fuel, and demonstrating scalable robotic maintenance—all while managing a challenging trade space of complex system interactions and emergent behaviours. The Design Authority holds overall accountability for technical risk and decisions related to the integrity, performance, and safety of the whole plant design throughout the full lifecycle within the organisation or alliance. You will: Define and Own the Performance Strategy : Develop and own the strategy to achieve STEP’s performance objectives, balancing technical ambition with program risk and margin. Derive and allocate top-level technical requirements across subsystems to achieve integrated plant performance. Proactively manage risks, opportunities, and trade-offs associated with technology development and performance optimization. Monitor and Assure Performance : Lead the verification and validation (V&V) strategy, progressively building confidence in the plant design. Address emergent performance issues with innovative and pragmatic solutions, working closely with the technical teams. Provide strategic feedback to ensure program outputs meet STEP’s objectives while navigating uncertainty. Lead Multidisciplinary Teams : Direct a team of 5 direct reports and 20 indirect reports, while influencing delivery teams to align with performance requirements. Oversee the integration of remote maintenance, control systems, manufacturability assessments, and radioactive waste management. Guide the development of advanced concepts and oversee design pivots as needed to address performance challenges. Shape the Future of Fusion Energy : Drive experimental approaches to solve unprecedented challenges, leveraging creative problem-solving and innovative strategies. Balance system-level trade-offs to ensure STEP’s success while maintaining alignment with program timelines and goals. Represent STEP Leadership : Deputize for the Chief Engineer at internal and external events, including technical reviews, regulatory engagements, and global conferences. Embody positive leadership behaviours, fostering a supportive and dynamic team environment. Act as a cultural ambassador, representing our organisation's values and professionalism. This role demands exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and strategic vision, requiring a leader capable of thriving in a high-stakes, emergent environment.