Stakeholder Engagement Lead

About the Role

National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) strength lies in our people. Together, we’re shaping the future where clean, affordable energy is accessible for all. Every day is an opportunity to make a real difference, accelerating the progress of sustainable GB energy, keeping people connected and society thriving as we create a brighter tomorrow. At NESO, we’re planning the future energy system by bringing electricity, gas and hydrogen together to produce a blueprint of Great Britain’s needs for the next 25 years.

This role sits within the Strategic Energy Planning (SEP) stakeholder engagement team. We are looking for a Stakeholder Engagement Lead to support the engagement activities that underpin the delivery of the Centralised Strategic Network Plan (CSNP) and wider strategic energy planning objectives.

This role will lead and coordinate stakeholder engagement activity across a complex and evolving landscape, ensuring that stakeholders are informed, engaged and able to contribute effectively to decision-making. The postholder will work collaboratively across teams to develop and deliver engagement approaches, build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, gather and analyse stakeholder insight, and support effective communication of complex issues.

The role provides flexibility to work across a range of stakeholder groups, programmes and engagement activities, helping NESO deliver coordinated, high-quality and insight-led engagement.

Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of stakeholder engagement activities aligned to programme and organisational priorities. Develop and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, acting as a trusted point of contact where appropriate. Support the development and implementation of engagement plans, strategies and approaches. Ensure engagement activity is delivered in a consistent, proportionate and insight-led manner. Contribute to the development of guidance, tools, processes and ways of working.

Represent NESO at meetings, workshops, forums and events. Support the development of stakeholder-facing materials, presentations and briefing packs.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Visa sponsorship may not be available for this role and will be considered in line with business requirements.

We’re looking for someone who thrives in a complex and dynamic environment and enjoys working with a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues. You will be comfortable managing competing priorities, working across organisational boundaries and adapting your approach to meet changing business needs. Build and maintain effective relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders. Deliver engagement activities that support organisational objectives.

Analyse stakeholder feedback and identify themes, risks and opportunities. Communicate complex information clearly and appropriately for different audiences. Work collaboratively across teams and functions. Influence outcomes through effective communication, partnership working and stakeholder management. Manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of delivery. Support continuous improvement in engagement approaches, processes and tools.

Experience of infrastructure, energy, utilities, planning or regulated sectors. Experience supporting large-scale programmes or projects. Experience facilitating workshops, forums or engagement events. Knowledge of strategic planning, energy policy or network development processes.

A competitive salary of £50,000 - £55,000 dependent on experience and capability

As well as your base salary, NESO's core benefits are the essential perks and advantages that form part of your employee package.

• You will receive a bonus based on company performance
• 26 days annual leave as standard
• A competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%
• Annual Enrollment to NESO Savings Plan, when you save between £20- £500 a month from your take-home pay, we will pay a 50% matching…