Overview
Hays have partnered with a leading engineering contractor to appoint a Head of Utilities to oversee the delivery of major DNO framework programmes across Ireland and the UK. This senior leadership role carries full responsibility for mobilisation, safety, operational performance,mercial oues and client engagement across large-scale utilities programmes. You’ll lead geographically dispersed field teams, act as the senior client interface and ensure safe,pliant and efficient delivery of smart metering, electrical network upgrades and wider utilities works.
Your new role
You’ll drive operational planning, resource mobilisation and programme management across multiple regions, shaping delivery strategy and ensuring alignment with contractual performance targets and DNO standards. This role demands strong operational leadership,mercial oversight and a proactive, innovation‑focused approach.
1. Lead mobilisation and operational delivery of utilities programmes across Ireland and the UK.
2. Oversee field teams, workflow planning and digital tools to support efficient project execution.
3. Ensure projects meet all safety, quality and DNO regulatory standards.
4. Act as senior client interface, managing relationships and representing the division at reviews.
5. Take ownership ofmercial performance including P&L, budgeting and cost control.
6. Drive continuous improvement and lead large, multi‑region operational teams.
7. Support strategic growth and ensure delivery against programme milestones and contractual KPIs.
What you'll need to succeed
8. Senior leadership experience (Head of Department/Programme Director) within electrical or utilities environments.
9. Proven background delivering utilities frameworks, ideally including ESB or DNO exposure.
10. Strong track record managing large, geographically dispersed field teams.
11. Excellent understanding of Health & Safety legislation for electrical utilities in Ireland and the UK.
12. Electrical background strongly preferred, with knowledge of substations, distribution networks and smart metering systems.
13. Professional membership (ICE/CIOB) or NEBOSH/IOSH desirable.
14. Proactive, forward‑thinking leader with strong stakeholder and client engagement skills.
What you'll get in return
This is an outstanding opportunity to lead one of the business’s most strategically important divisions, delivering nationally significant utilities programmes across Ireland and the UK. You’ll shape operational strategy, influencemercial oues and work directly with major utilities clients on long-term frameworks. Apetitive, tailored package will be offered to the successful candidate, reflecting your leadership capability, sector experience and the strategic importance of this role.