An interim opportunity is available for a Head of Operations (Strategic Projects) role based in the East Midlands for a period of up to 6 months, subject to review. The base location can be any depot within the East Midlands and will be agreed with the successful candidate.Reporting to the Operations Director you will be responsible for developing action plans for strategic projects across the field operations (East Midlands) to support alignment to overall business objectives. This will include root cause analysis, impact assessments, supporting and implementing change initiatives, feasibility studies and business case development. The role requires cross functional collaboration to align business strategies.About UsWe're National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED), the owner and operator behind the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales. Serving communities of more than 8 million people, our expert teams deliver heat, light and power for homes and businesses.National Grid employs over 29,000 people worldwide. We are building an inclusive workplace, a place to actively celebrate the cultures, personalities and preferences of our colleagues – who in turn help to build the success of our business and reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future and we are doing this in a fast-moving industry with an increasing focus on tackling climate change, exploring new energy sources that are renewable, low carbon, and improve efficiency to meet demand.Main ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement strategic projects to support the achievement of the east midland's objectives, as directed by the operations directorCan be deployed to stand in for any of the head of operations in East MidlandsLead with a safety-first mindsetDevelop implementation plans to embed change initiatives into BAUDevelop thorough impact assessments for all strategic projectsLead cross-functional project teams and manage project timelines and deliverablesIdentify and mitigate risks and issues.Collaborate with stakeholders to gather project requirements and ensure alignmentMonitor progress and communicate updates to key stakeholdersDevelop and manage project budgets and resource allocation where relevantContinuously assess and improve processes and methodologies, highlighting all opportunities uncovered including those outside of the strategic projects allocatedUse positive influence to engage the workforce and ensure buy in to the strategic projectsEnsure that all strategic projects are developed in accordance with appropriate legislation, laid down policies and standards.Promote good employee relations and to create an environment that motivates and encourages the development of individuals. Contribute to the development of engineering strategy, policy and objectives.Successfully liaise with peers and key stakeholders, to lead to successful outcomes for the East or Midlands business. This includes frequent contact with internal stakeholders such as other leaders within Field Operations and Asset Management, including the Control Centre. External stakeholders include Customers (large and small), in particular Engineering Managers of large consumers and representatives of contractors, up to Director level. Complexity and Creativity:Deal with a wide range of problems on a continuous basis. They range from technical through to personal, organisational and customer related issues to dealing with major system emergencies.Regularly support the East Midlands Leadership Team on technical and organisational matters which will considerably influence their decisions and therefore the performance of the Distribution System and the Distribution Business.In determining ways of improving performance and promoting change, to exercise a high degree of creativity and strategic vision. The Ideal CandidateWe're looking for an effective communicator, with demonstrable experience of business and financial management. The successful candidate will have a broad understanding of the Electricity Distribution or Supply Industry and experience of leadership in a large Operational or multi-disciplined environment. In particular experience of leading and managing through change would be beneficial.Your leadership experience should include the ability to influence, motivate, coach and develop employees at all levels. An accomplished problem solver, you will be confident negotiating and making decisions when necessary.A degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent level of education is preferred but not essential.Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system.However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.National Grid Electricity Distribution is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Company, colleagues and customers.This role is subject to a satisfactory Barring Service (DBS) check. Depending on the role, different levels of screening and vetting are required. Some roles require a triannual check.About The CompanyJoining the UK's leading electricity distribution business means plenty of career opportunities and well-deserved recognition. We reward hard work and encourage ambition. So, as well as a competitive salary, you will also benefit from:Annual performance related bonus28 days Annual Leave plus 8 Bank HolidaysCompetitive contributory pension scheme (we double match your contributions up to a maximum of 12%)Annual Share Save planPrivate medical insurance and contributory healthcare your familySupport via our Employee Assistance Programme, including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy servicesFree on-site parking at all our main sitesElectric Company Car or Car Allowance