Head of Engineering – CHP, Power & Private Wire
Opportunity Overview
We are seeking a Head of Engineering – Power to act as the business's technical authority across all private wire and power infrastructure projects. This role will oversee the full lifecycle of project engineering, from concept design through to operational handover, ensuring that all solutions meet the highest standards of performance, safety, and compliance. The postholder will also set technical direction, govern engineering assurance, engage with regulators, and define specifications for contractors and delivery partners.
About the Company
Our client is redefining how energy works at a local level. Their mission is to harness local energy to drive the transition towards cleaner, more affordable, and more secure power. By combining innovation with deep expertise, they create solutions that deliver real impact. Collaboration sits at the core of their approach, helping unlock opportunities and address challenges for communities, businesses, and partners alike.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Governance
* Serve as the technical authority for all private wire and power infrastructure projects.
* Shape and implement technical strategies, standards, and best practices.
* Approve technical designs, proposals, and major engineering decisions.
* Establish robust governance frameworks to ensure quality and consistency across projects.
Project Development & Engineering Assurance
* Lead engineering input from project concept through commissioning and operations.
* Ensure designs are resilient, cost-effective, and aligned with long-term operational needs.
* Support development teams with technical feasibility, design options, and innovation pathways.
* Provide technical input into business cases, validating assumptions and assessing risks.
Regulatory Engagement
* Act as the main technical contact for regulators (e.g., Ofgem, DNOs, National Grid).
* Guarantee compliance with all grid codes, industry standards, and regulatory frameworks.
* Represent the company in consultations, technical forums, and sector working groups.
Partner & Supply Chain Management
* Define specifications, scopes, and technical requirements for contractors and partners.
* Lead the technical evaluation process during partner selection.
* Monitor delivery partners' technical performance, ensuring alignment with project goals.
* Manage technical change control and variation processes with third parties.
Operational Integration
* Ensure solutions are designed with long-term reliability, maintainability, and performance in mind.
* Work closely with operations and asset management teams to embed best practice into design.
* Oversee smooth technical handover from delivery to operations, including documentation, testing, and training.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
* Stay ahead of emerging technologies, regulatory developments, and industry trends in power and private wire systems.
* Champion innovation in engineering design, systems integration, and technology adoption.
* Lead continuous improvement initiatives, capturing lessons learned from project delivery.
Skills & Experience
* Degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or a related discipline.
* Chartered Engineer status (CEng) or equivalent professional accreditation (preferred).
* Significant experience in designing, developing, and delivering private wire, distributed generation, or grid-connected power projects.
* Deep knowledge of the UK electricity market, regulatory landscape, and technical standards.
If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity, please send your CV through to Rob Byrom.