RESP Strategic Lead - West Midlands

About the Role

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is creating a Regional Energy Strategic Planner role based in the West Midlands. The successful candidate will develop 11 Regional Energy Strategic Plans, work with local actors such as local government and energy networks, and establish NESO’s regional presence.

• Develop, consult and implement the RESP methodology for the region.
• Serve as subject‑matter expert on the regional energy system and its interfaces with internal NESO and external stakeholders.
• Lead and coordinate regional planning work packages within a matrix structure.
• Represent NESO’s regional planning function at strategic level and deputise for the regional manager.
• Engage key regional stakeholders to gather input and ensure the RESP delivers value.
• Design, support and run workshops and engagement activities with the Regional Board and other stakeholders.
• Produce clear, concise reports and slide packs tailored to the audience.
• Communicate and propose changes to key assumptions in the RESP methodology.
• Create new analytical and presentation approaches to support quick understanding of complex topics.

• Experience with in the energy sector and technical energy knowledge.
• Advanced experience in at least one energy vector (gas, electricity, heat decarbonisation, hydrogen, transport decarbonisation, etc).
• Experience working with local authorities or energy distribution companies, ideally in the West Midlands.
• Experience managing newly formed or changing teams.
• Ability to translate complex technical information into clear messaging for non‑technical audiences.
• Strategic critical thinking and ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Knowledge of data and systems used in energy distribution networks and local energy planning.
• Project management and coordination skills to meet deadlines and governance requirements.
• An inquisitive mind willing to learn about new areas of work.

• Competitive salary of £55,000‑£65,000, commensurate with experience.
• Bonus based on company performance.
• 26 days annual leave.
• Contributory pension scheme with up to 12% company match.
• NESO Savings Plan – 50% match on contributions of £20‑£500 per month.
• Flexible benefits including bank holiday trading, birthday day off, cycle‑to‑work scheme, and discounts on retail and gym memberships.
• Private medical and critical illness insurance, and personal accident insurance.

NESO is an independent, expert public corporation that oversees Great Britain’s decarbonising electricity system and provides strategic advice on how to deliver a clean power system by 2030. We operate across electricity, gas and hydrogen, and strive to balance sustainability, affordability and security for all energy users.

This role closes at 23:59 on the day before the date displayed above. If you are interested, we encourage you to apply early. NESO is committed to a fair, inclusive recruitment process and welcomes applications from candidates who may not tick every box.