Head of Network Projects (Regional)

We are at the heart of Ireland’s energy transition - connecting, operating and transforming the electricity grid to support a low carbon, renewable future. We are building talented teams that tackle real world challenges every day and help us to achieve our goal to prepare the grid to carry up to 80% of Ireland’s electricity from renewable sources. We are proud to be a certified Great Place to Work, recognised for our culture built on trust, collaboration and inclusion. At EirGrid you will find supportive teams, opportunities to grow and meaningful work. We also offer secure employment with a range of flexible and family friendly working policies to support your life and wellbeing. If you are ready to make an impact and grow your career in a purpose-led organisation, your journey starts here. The Opportunity We are now seeking a Head of Networks Projects to join the Chief Infrastructure Office. The successful candidate will report directly to the Chief Infrastructure Officer and be a member of EirGrid’s extended leadership team. As Head of Network Projects you will play a pivotal role in the end-to-end development and delivery of all network projects in a designated region required to develop, reinforce or upgrade the transmission system. The scope of the role includes the development of new transmission stations and circuits and the refurbishment and upgrade of existing transmission stations and circuits. These complex projects are highly visible, involving multiple stakeholders, and the role holder will mobilise and lead a team of senior project managers with the capability to drive all aspects of the projects from conception to energisation. Success in the role will be determined by the delivery of the network of projects within the region in line with project timelines and budget and in accordance with EirGrid’s governance process and the CRU’s regulatory framework. The role holder will be a main interface point with ESB Engineering & Major Projects for the delivery of the projects within the designated region. One of the challenges for the role holder will be to demonstrate how this role adds value in bringing these key business relationships to a new level of partnership, focused on delivery of strategic objectives for positive change. The Team The role of the Chief Infrastructure Office is to lead the development and delivery of the power system and interconnection investment programmes, in collaboration with partners, customers & communities. With an ultimate target of having a decarbonised power system in advance of 2050. The Network Projects function oversees the planning and implementation of power system infrastructure across designated regions within Ireland, with a focus on enhancing the power grid by integrating renewable sources and ensuring a resilient and sustainable power network. The scale of investment in grid development under the Price Review 6 period (2026 – 2030) is substantial with a significant portfolio of major projects to be delivered over the period. The delivery of these projects is fundamental to continued security of electricity supply and the achievement of EirGrid’s Strategy and Government ambitions. Key Responsibilities - Lead, motivate and engage a high performing team in end-to-end project delivery. - Deliver the projects to the required scope, cost and timescale ensuring that the appropriate measures are in place to monitor progress and oversee effective change control process. - Embed the optioneering process into the project delivery cycle ensuring that appropriate decisions are made to progress projects in a timely manner. - Drive the application of standards and policies as set out by the PMO function in relation to project management including project governance requirements. - Lead the engagement with key stakeholder and act as a key interface point with ESB Engineering & Major Projects. - Act as a point of escalation and proactively work to resolve key issues arising for EirGrid with TAO and ESB Engineering & Major Projects senior management. - Represent EirGrid externally at infrastructure related events and support engagement with communities and landowners relevant to the projects. - Develop key project milestones and effective reporting approaches into the centralised Integrated Transmission Programme to support the continuous review and delivery of projects at pace. - Ensure that the appropriate capacity and capabilities are developed to deliver the future business needs. About You Successful candidates will have: - A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as engineering, energy systems, project management, or other relevant or related field. - Proven experience in large-scale infrastructure development, ideally in energy, utilities, or regulated industries. - A proven track record in delivering significant capital programmes of national significance. - Deep knowledge of transmission systems, renewable integration, and planning processes. - Demonstrated experience of dealing with challenges associated with securing community and stakeholder buy in for large infrastructure projects. - Deep understanding of power system design, development, construction and operation. - Experience of creating, leading and influencing high performing teams in changing circumstances. - Strong collaboration and relationship building skills with the ability to effectively engage with other areas, companies and stakeholders, acknowledging different perspectives respectfully. - Strong understanding of the requirements of key stakeholders and customers in the context of the EirGrid Strategy and supports EirGrid in meeting them in a balanced and effective manner while upholding EirGrid’s culture and values. Closing date for applications 30th October We value potential as much as experience. If you believe you can succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet every requirement. We're dedicated to diversity and inclusion at EirGrid. We recognise the strength that comes from having a diverse workforce and the importance of a supportive culture for all our people to achieve their potential. Our diversity and inclusion networks have been designed to create an inclusive culture that enables our people to feel a sense of belonging at work. As an equal opportunities’ employer, we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. Reasonable accommodations are offered at every stage of our recruitment process.