SONI is the System Operator for Northern Ireland, responsible for operating and planning the electricity transmission system so that power flows safely, securely and reliably to homes, farms, businesses and public services. Their role in operating the electricity grid extends beyond the present and is growing in importance and as the Transmission System Operator, SONI also have the vital job of planning for Northern Ireland’s energy future, with a clear focus on collaborating closely with all stakeholders to ensure the needs of the Northern Ireland consumer are met.
As part of the EirGrid Group, SONI also operates the €7bn Single Electricity Market across the island of Ireland. With an annual turnover of c.£200m and a team of 190 specialists, SONI is at the forefront of the energy transition.
The Director of Networks & Innovation will lead the programme of visioning and delivering a power system for 2030 and beyond that can support at least 80% annual renewable electricity consumption through the once in a generation transformation of Northern Ireland’s high voltage transmission grid and the development of world leading operating technology and electricity markets.
The Networks & Innovation directorate is central to achieving the future ambitions of SONI on multiple levels. Within this context, the Director of Networks & Innovation has a substantial leadership role with a particular focus on the long-term view and programme delivery, ensuring that SONI is future focused, developing and growing its position as a trusted advisor to regulators and government.
The role holder will be responsible for a number of business functions including Networks (Grid), Digital Innovation, Future Markets and Future Power Systems. The teams within this Directorate develop scenarios, options, and optimum pathways to ensure that SONI’s strategic ambitions are realised, future demand for clean electricity is met, whilst at the same time ensuring that the power system remains stable and reliable during the energy transition.
This role demands the capability to communicate and influence at Board level, engagement with a diverse base of stakeholders and shape strategy development. We are seeking applications from candidates with demonstrable experience at senior management level, reporting to Executive and/or Board level in a complex energy or other utility / infrastructure delivery environment to include overseeing the successful delivery of major physical infrastructure programmes.
Please visit Clarendon Executive Website to download a detailed candidate brief with further information on the role, to arrange a confidential conversation please contact Claire McKee of Clarendon Executive.
Closing date for receipt of CVs is 10am, Monday 22 June 2026.
SONI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone can thrive. As a STEM organisation, we are continuing to strengthen gender diversity across our engineering and technology roles and welcome applications from women who want to build and apply their expertise to Northern Ireland’s energy system.