Role Title: Future Power Markets Development Manager
Reports to: Head of Future Power Markets
Location: Belfast (Hybrid – 3 days in the office, 2 days remote)

About Us
SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator (TSO). We manage the electricity grid to ensure that power can flow from where it is generated to where it is needed. We are now transforming the power system for future generations. Be part of the change!

Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast-moving, collaborative and team orientated. Our culture is driven by performance, knowledge and continual development. Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuels and making decarbonisation a reality – while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply in a way that secures the future for those who follow us. Our future has never looked more exciting. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of it. The world is ready for change. If you are too, join us.

The Role

The Networks and Innovation Directorate within SONI comprises highly skilled professionals with backgrounds in engineering and business/commerce.

Northern Ireland has a target to achieve 80% of our electricity to come from renewable resources by 2030 and to be net carbon neutral by 2050. The Networks and Innovation Directorate is central to the delivery of our primary role – the operation, development and enhancement of the all-island power system and the wholesale electricity market. This role will strategically analyse, develop, and implement future power market opportunities that support the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable energy system in Northern Ireland. The focus would be forward-looking strategies, project pipeline management, and market integration of emerging technologies.

This includes leading the delivery of transformational change in cross border markets, operational development, as well as identifying and supporting future market development for the benefit of consumers. FPM Development Manager will identify, evaluate, and prioritise future power market opportunities.

This is an excellent opportunity for innovative, solution-focused, resilient, and motivated individuals to join our team and play a key role in the transition to a low carbon energy future.

Key Responsibilities

The Future Power Markets Development Manager is responsible for leading a team of senior lead analysts and senior analysts who support the Strategic Markets Programmes (SMP), market development, planning, and transition towards successful implementation of the Pillars of Shaping Our Electricity Future. Applicants will demonstrate an ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative work environment and will have the following responsibilities:

Pipeline Management:

• Identify, evaluate, and prioritise future power market opportunities.
• Maintain a comprehensive project pipeline that aligns with the strategic goals of SONI and the energy transition objectives.
• Develop a robust framework to assess the feasibility of new projects, including renewable energy schemes, energy storage projects, and other clean energy initiatives.

Emerging Technology Integration:

• Stay ahead of technological advancements that impact power markets, such as green hydrogen, offshore wind, and hybrid storage systems.
• Develop strategies for integrating new technologies into the transmission system and market mechanisms.
• Collaborate with the innovation and technology teams to explore new market solutions.

Route to Market Strategies:

• Develop commercial frameworks and policies to support the integration of new technologies into the market.
• Monitor market developments and adjust strategic plans to remain competitive.
• Assess market access for novel technologies and support stakeholders with advice on market entry.
• Advocate for policy changes that facilitate new market routes for renewable and low-carbon technologies.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration:

• Build strategic alliances with technology providers, regulators, and industry stakeholders.
• Engage in collaborative projects and market trials to test the feasibility of new technologies.

Leadership and Team Management:

• Manage resource allocation for development activities and coordinate with cross-functional teams.
• Coach, mentor and develop team members; coordinate activities as required; support a solutions-based approach to risks and issues that have been escalated. Oversee the professional development of the development team, ensuring skills align with emerging market trends.

It should be recognised that the nature of this post will change over time as the needs of the business change, and it is a requirement of the job that the holder will contribute to this development.

What You’ll Need

Joining SONI as a Future Power Markets Development Manager, you’ll need:

Essential:

• Relevant third level qualification, typically with 8+ years relevant experience in a challenging project development environment within energy sector.
• Proven track record in managing a team, managing resources and deliverables to achieve outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to develop policy-driven projects
• Demonstratable ability to manage people.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• Ability to mentor and develop a team by setting objectives and allocating roles to develop knowledge.
• Demonstrated experience with stakeholder engagement and regulatory compliance.
• Effective communication skills to present technical information to stakeholders.

Desirable:

• Demonstrated experience in working with the Irish Single Electricity Market (SEM) or European power systems and transmission system operators (TSOs)
• Knowledge of electricity market operations and their impact Transmission and Balancing Markets
• Familiarity with market mechanisms like RESS and LDES.
• Experience in partnership building and collaborative project management.
• Proven track record in forward-looking market analysis
• Knowledge of decarbonisation strategies and renewable energy policies.
• Familiarity with Market codes, Network codes, and regulatory requirements
• Experience working in a regulated industry and ability to assess compliance with relevant obligations

Applicants should note that based on the response, SONI may increase the shortlisting criteria.

What You Will Get

This is an opportunity to lead and contribute to the advancement of a critical component of the energy infrastructure. The rewards package includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, eligibility for an annual performance related payment, private medical provision, competitive pension with employer matching arrangements, a variety of salary sacrifice schemes (e.g. pension, cycle to work and electric vehicle leasing) together with hybrid working arrangements (3 days office: 2 days working at home), flexible start and finish times, competitive holidays and complimentary car parking with electric charging point on site. If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the electricity sector, we invite you to apply.

Submit your application by uploading your CV with a cover letter (in one document).

Closing date for applications is 9th June 2025.

SONI is an equal opportunities employer. SONI is not providing sponsorship for this role.