Head of OCC System Operability - South

Job Title Head of OCC System Operability 

Location Prenton 

Salary from £70,800, up to 20% bonus, family health cover and car allowance  

Flexible Working Pattern 

Help us create a better future, quicker 

The Head of OCC System Operability is a newly created role in the Operational Control Centre with the key focus of working alongside the other Directorates to ensure a seamless environment exists for the use of flex contracts and DSO (Distribution System Operator) interactions in a real time environment to ensure the efficient operation of the distribution network.  

The growth required to deliver on our commitments and to play our part in Great Britain’s pathway to net zero requires our Operational Control Centre to understand what (if any) transition is required to ensure that the uptake and use of our SCADA platform and supporting products/tools are embraced to deliver a seamless service to our customers. It is crucial our operational understanding is in play when adapting to changes in processes/requirements from the System Operator and government agencies such as NESO whilst we transition to a DSO as well as minimising any impact of any change in systems for our customers.    

You’ll be responsible for all aspects of helping shape future strategy at all voltage levels, technology deployment and development, IT deliveries, development and upskilling of staff for the future and the facilitation of all future investment. This involves the management of safety, system integrity, customer service and co-ordination of system access while ensuring compliance with the licence.  An integral part of this will involve mentoring and coaching team members and developing and encouraging a strong team culture. 

Responsible for minimising risk to the SPM network by co-ordinating activities with the District Operations management teams to ensure all planned and unplanned work is completed timeously, cost effectively and with the correct priorities.  Responsible for ensuring the Control Room delivers the highest levels in Safety Compliance & Customer Service in line with SPEN strategic goals. 

Responsible for the development of policies and strategies associated with system restoration activities.  This will involve engaging and working closely with other parts of the business, HSE, DESNZ, OFGEM, NGET and other DNO’s.  Represent SPM interests in Government led Industry Groups. 

What you’ll be doing 

 As Head of OCC System Operability, you will lead a high-performing team responsible for the safe, efficient and reliable operation of the network. Championing a strong safety culture, you will ensure compliance with all relevant legislation while overseeing operational interfaces with Control Room, DSO and wider business functions to deliver key performance, customer service and regulatory objectives. 

 You will play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, leading the development and delivery of strategic operating plans, new technologies and innovative processes. Working closely with stakeholders across the business, you will maximise the use of network flexibility services, support emergency planning activities, and help position the organisation to respond successfully to future regulatory, technological and operational challenges. 

As a visible and influential leader, you will coach, mentor and develop the OCC System Operability team, ensuring performance, capability and succession plans are in place. You will balance risk, customer, regulatory and business priorities, making sound decisions in complex situations while contributing to the wider leadership team and supporting the delivery of Energy Networks' strategic goals.   

What you’ll bring 

• Expert knowledge of SP Energy Networks policies, procedures and working practices. 

• Expert knowledge of health, safety and environmental legislation. 

• Awareness of network development policies and procedures. 

• Developed customer service skills. 

• Knowledge of network and business data and SCADA network management systems. 

• Innovative in applying the latest technologies. 

• Contract & SLA management and general commercial & regulatory awareness. 

• Developed negotiation, communication, influencing and man management skills. 

• Ability to devise solutions to complex problems/challenges. 

• Experience in a line management role. 

• Broad operational experience preferred, e.g. spanning Distribution / Transmission and possibly Generation. 

• Ability to deliver objectives without compromising on safety, quality or customer service. 

• Well-developed consultation, negotiation and influencing skills. 

• Good organisation and time management skills. 

• An effective and confident verbal and written communicator.  

• Ensure an appropriate structure of resource availability is in place to achieve the goals identified in the Operating Plan. 

• Working knowledge of company code of conduct, disciplinary procedures and other HR guidance documentation. 

• Expert knowledge of company Health & Safety requirements and compliance. 

• Expert Knowledge of the incentive arrangement surrounding TO and DNO activities. 

What’s in it for you 

As well as a competitive salary which is reviewed annually, you can also enjoy a number of other benefits. With our pension scheme, we’ll double match your contribution up to a company contribution of 10%. 

At ScottishPower, we believe it’s the little things we do in life that make a big difference. From helping you look after your family’s wellbeing, save for your future and take personal steps for climate action – our benefits are designed to help you do just that - so that you have everything you need to take care of your world – today and tomorrow. That’s why our benefits include: 

• 36 days annual leave 

• Holiday Purchase – perfect your work/life balance with extra annual leave 

• Share Schemes 

• Payroll Giving and Charity Matched Funding 

• Technology Vouchers – save more and spread the cost of your technology purchases 

• Electric Vehicle Schemes – to help you transition to green/clean driving 

• Cycle to Work scheme and Public Transport Season Ticket Loans 

• Healthcare benefit options including: Dental Insurance, Private Medical Insurance, Health Cash Plan and annual Health Assessments 

• Life Assurance (4x salary) 

• Access to Savesmart financial wellbeing support 

• Plus shopping, leisure, restaurant and gym discounts, and unique employee deals on travel insurance and more