Strategic Engagement Officer

Job Introduction

We have an exciting opportunity for a Strategic Engagement Officer to join our Distribution System Operator (DSO) team. The role will be based in either Swansea or Cardiff depot.

National Grid’s DSO is responsible for planning and operating the smart and innovative electricity system of the future in the Midlands, South-West and South Wales, making sure we have the right network in place to serve our customers. The energy needs of customers across our region are changing, and the speed of change will only accelerate over the next decade. In this role, you will be the external face of the DSO, collaborating with local stakeholders to facilitate progress on local energy initiatives within our South Wales coverage region.

The successful candidates will be responsible for supporting our strategic stakeholders to engage with our network planning and operation to ensure our decision making reflects their local priorities. This role will particularly focus on Local Authorities in Wales and Welsh Government, with whom we closely support their Local Area Energy Planning activities and address energy barriers to Welsh policy.

As part of our hybrid working approach this role offers a mix of office and home working. Hybrid working can only be considered once your initial training is complete and subject to business need.

There will be some level of business travel expected to meet stakeholders in the South Wales region and throughout the NGED area, as necessary. Therefore a full Driving Licence is required for this role.

Depending on experience, you may initially be appointed at a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are complete.

• Proactively engaging with strategic stakeholders of the DSO, including those involved in Welsh Local Area Energy Planning (including Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Partnerships, Combined Authorities, Net Zero Hubs and Welsh Government)
• Engaging in external events and bilateral meetings, including preparing content to represent company positions.
• Monitor the progress of Local Area Energy Planning and local energy projects identifying where stakeholders need extra support from the DSO.
• Sharing and promoting best practice on energy planning and delivery between regional stakeholders.
• Engaging with internal colleagues to align on stakeholder engagement, ensuring a consistent and efficient experience for stakeholders.
• Contributing to organisational use of Welsh language in external engagement.
• Supporting the Strategic Engagement Manager with flagship local energy initiatives in our region.
• Own the relationship with key Welsh strategic stakeholders, including identifying and resolving issues they’re experiencing in their interaction with the DSO and wider National Grid.

The successful candidate will have experience of stakeholder management, with a particular strength in supporting stakeholders to understand technical topics. You don’t need a background in energy, but we are seeking someone who:

• Is skilled in stakeholder engagement, with a proven track record of influencing and collaborating with stakeholders to achieve shared business priorities that cut across multiple organisations;
• Has strong organisational skills and is able to communicate proficiently with key stakeholders at all levels, both internally and externally;
• Can build strong and effective relationships with stakeholders;
• Is comfortable working independently and proactively, organising meetings with local authorities and seeking out the relevant contacts;
• Is confident in presenting to different stakeholder groups, both online and face to face;
• Welsh language proficiency would be advantageous for some role responsibilities, but not essential.

Applicants may not necessarily possess all the skills required to carry out the role at present but should have the confidence and ability to reach the necessary standards with in‑role training.

National Grid Electricity Distribution is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Company, colleagues and customers. This role is subject to a satisfactory Barring Service, (DBS) check, depending on the role different…