All Things Renewables - Powering The Future

398 days ago

All Things Renewables - Powering The Future

HVDC and The Grid Revolution

Join us for an insightful conversation with John Martin, Head of HVDC at LSP Renewables, and Mohammed Younes, Director of Engineering and career coach, as we explore the future of renewable energy and the grid. This episode dives into how the transmission and distribution network is evolving to integrate renewables, the impact of regulatory changes, and the role of cutting-edge technologies like STATCOMs and HVDC systems. We also discuss workforce challenges, career advice, and the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic industry.

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John Martin

Mohammed Younes

If you would like to discuss any of the topics from this episode of our 'All Things Renewables' podcast, please contact John Martin on john.martin@lsprenewables.com

Latest Jobs

Transmission & Grid

Procurement Manager - Senior

London / Hybrid - United Kingdom

Senior Procurement ManagerThis is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Procurement Manager to join a global low-carbon energy and services organization to support the growth and transformation of the procurement function in the UK.The role offers an excellent career opportunity to learn, develop, and apply expertise within a global environment supported by best-in-class processes and technology. It provides a unique platform to work closely with leadership teams in the UK and Europe, benefiting from extensive domain experience while enhancing the successful candidate’s career profile.Reporting to the Head of Procurement, the Senior Procurement Manager will be proactively involved in driving key targets and supporting the wider team. We are looking for a self-starter with strong practical knowledge and experience across multiple sectors, delivering high-value and critical sourcing projects, combined with a solid understanding of procurement processes and best practices.This role will suit candidates with experience in strategic sourcing, procurement best practice, contract management, and data analytics, as well as hands-on experience with ERP systems, supplier risk assessments, and category management strategies within infrastructure and civils categories.You will have strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships while commissioning critical procurements that deliver tangible value. The successful candidate will act as a strategic thought partner to the Head of Procurement and the UK leadership team.Given the global operating model, the role requires working within a matrixed environment, providing exposure to global sourcing initiatives, joint procurement projects, and close collaboration with international category teams. Key AccountabilitiesStrategic Sourcing Provide expert advice and guidance to managers on strategic sourcing and procurement matters. Review and provide input on sourcing strategies and buying channels. Represent the Head of Procurement at meetings or committees as required. Support the Head of Procurement and, where appropriate, take the lead in managing client expectations and overseeing end-to-end supply chain processes. Oversee sourcing pipeline development and forecast activity, supporting the team where required. Teamwork Work collaboratively across functions to identify improvement opportunities, simplify processes, and reinforce existing procedures. Take a leading role and/or supervise the work of others where required. Provide coaching, advice, and guidance to other members of the procurement team. Target Operating Model Deliverables Support the Procurement Team to ensure they have the necessary skills and capabilities to fulfil their responsibilities, providing training where appropriate. Maintain a holistic view of demand and supply options and identify preferred suppliers in collaboration with stakeholders. Contribute to the preparation and presentation of monthly KPI reporting aligned with regional and local requirements. Develop and manage projects aimed at improving service delivery. Support the Head of Procurement in building strong functional foundations and delivering an outcome-driven roadmap. Assist in mobilizing project procurement resourcing in line with European Target Operating Model (TOM) initiatives. Support the review and standardization of process guides, procurement procedures, and policies. Develop short training modules and learning sessions to promote awareness and best practices. Assist in ensuring procurement activities comply with internal controls and governance requirements. Develop and maintain systems and processes to support effective service delivery. Reporting / Data / Analytics Prepare monthly (and ad-hoc) procurement reports, including project monitoring, risk tracking, and forecasted savings. Enable and develop reporting tools using Power Apps to support productivity and workload management. Review compliance processes, including due diligence KPIs. Communication Present procurement strategies, risks, and associated savings to senior management with confidence and clarity. Work closely with the Head of Procurement to communicate processes to the team and wider UK business. Manage and communicate escalations relating to suppliers or projects, articulating options and solutions effectively. Dimensions of the Role Based at the London Head Office, with regular travel to key sites, particularly during the initial phase. Responsibility for maintaining and renegotiating current contracts and pipelines. Travel to sites as required to build visibility and strengthen stakeholder engagement. Strategic alignment with the procurement function’s Target Operating Model. Outcome- and results-driven responsibilities. Interface with managers and employees across multiple UK sites. Expedite high-value goods and services to ensure timely delivery. Manage strategic supplier relationships and conduct supplier visits where necessary. Key Relationships UK Chief Procurement Officer (Line Manager) Wider Procurement Team European Procurement Leadership and Teams Procurement Managers and Category Leads Finance Teams Legal and Insurance Teams HR Suppliers and On-site Contractors Internal Customers (Engineers, Technicians, IT Managers, etc.) External and Internal Auditors Knowledge and SkillsThe job holder will have: Strong proficiency in strategic sourcing and cost optimization Advanced negotiation skills at both tendering and senior management level Knowledge of supplier markets and e-procurement platforms Working knowledge of procurement ERP systems Understanding of contract law, health and safety, and environmental legislation Ability to mentor and inspire team members Analytical mindset with a focus on continuous improvement Ability to identify and drive process improvements and automation Strong communication and interpersonal skills Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities Advanced Microsoft 365 skills (Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint); familiarity with Power BI or Power Automate is desirable ExperienceThe job holder will have: At least 5–7 years of procurement experience covering Capex projects and non-Capex categories including IT, consultancy, facilities management, travel, general expenses, civil maintenance contracts, equipment refurbishment, high-value contracts, and call-off agreements (Essential) Working knowledge of ERP systems (Essential) Exposure to project procurement, NEC, and EPC contracting (Desirable) Proven track record of delivering process improvements and automation (Essential) Knowledge of consultancy, licensing, and service contracts (Essential) Intermediate Microsoft 365 skills (Essential) Experience with e-catalogue setup (Desirable) Knowledge of SAP Ariba modules (Desirable) Experience in Capex procurement (Desirable) Qualifications Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Procurement, or Logistics (Essential) Chartered professional qualification (CIPS) or willingness to work towards (Desirable) Full driving license and own transport (Essential) Behavioural Capabilities Positive and proactive approach Strong analytical thinking High attention to detail Emotional intelligence Collaborative mindset Adaptability Agile approach to work and peer-to-peer collaboration

Transmission & Grid

Head of Sales Excellence

Leeds / Hybrid - United Kingdom

Head of Sales ExcellenceAre you a strategic leader with a passion for sales excellence and a knack for coaching high-performing teams? A prestigious role awaits as the Head of Sales Excellence, where you will spearhead the design, implementation, and continuous enhancement of sales coaching and enablement programmes. This pivotal position is based in Leeds, offering hybrid working options to suit your lifestyle.In this role, you will collaborate closely with the Sales Leadership Team to elevate performance across all sales channels, ensuring teams are equipped to exceed customer expectations and commercial targets. Your expertise will be instrumental in embedding best-in-class methodologies such as Miller Heiman and SPIN Selling, and future-proofing our sales capability through data-driven insights, training, and behavioural profiling.Key Responsibilities:- Sales Coaching Strategy: Develop and deliver bespoke coaching programmes tailored to team needs, leveraging methodologies like Miller Heiman and SPIN Selling.- Performance Enablement: Lead the deployment of behavioural profiling, skills scans, and training assessments to identify development needs and optimise communication strategies.- Capability Development: Facilitate internal and external workshops to enhance sales skills, from prospecting to proposal development.- Sales Methodology Adoption: Ensure consistent understanding and application of sales frameworks across all teams.- Insight & Reporting: Generate detailed reports on sales performance, coaching effectiveness, and development progress.- Innovation & Integration: Explore and integrate emerging sales enablement tools (e.g., Sales Navigator, ZINT, AI software) to support prospecting and pipeline management.- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to align sales excellence initiatives with business goals.Outcomes and KPIs:- Elevate sales team performance to consistently achieve or exceed commercial targets.- Develop an empowered sales culture where coaching initiatives translate into growth in individual and team success metrics.- Integrate cutting-edge sales tools to streamline processes and increase sales pipeline velocity.- Strengthen alignment between sales excellence programmes and business objectives, resulting in enhanced cross-functional collaboration and efficiency.- Improve conversion rates from prospect to closed deals.- Increase engagement levels from sales coaching and training programmes.- Generate actionable insights from sales performance analytics tools.Dimensions of the Role:- No direct reports but will work closely with the Head of Sales to drive results.- Required to work under current company contract requirements, based in the Leeds office for a minimum of 2 days a week.- Willingness to travel across the UK.- Work towards specific targets set for new business sales.Key Relationships:- Internal: All Energy Supply Departments, particularly Sales Management Group and Energy Supply Leadership Team.- External: Customers, Third Party Intermediaries (brokers and consultants), Wider Group, Sister companies, and subsidiaries.Knowledge and Skills:- Proven experience in a senior sales enablement, coaching, or performance leadership role.- Deep understanding of sales methodologies (Miller Heiman, SPIN Selling) and behavioural profiling.- Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.- Experience in the UK energy market is desirable.- Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.- Familiarity with sales tools such as Salesforce, Sales Navigator, and AI-driven prospecting platforms.Experience:- Experience in the UK Energy Market, particularly in Retail.- Well-developed experience in sales techniques and optimisation across various sales segments.- Ability to analyse problems and identify solutions using Microsoft Office tools.- Proven ability to coach and facilitate.Qualifications:- Degree level or equivalent.Behavioural Capabilities:- Exceptional adaptability to change, thriving in dynamic and fast-paced environments.- Strong emotional intelligence, fostering trust and rapport with team members and stakeholders.- Resilience and a solution-focused mindset, overcoming challenges with determination and creativity.- Proactive approach to continuous improvement, embracing feedback and driving personal and professional growth.- Ability to inspire and motivate teams, promoting a culture of excellence and accountability.This role offers a unique platform to drive sales excellence and make a significant impact on the business strategy. If you are ready to take on this challenge and lead with vision and expertise, this is the role for you.

Transmission & Grid

Head of Sales Support

Leeds / Hybrid - United Kingdom

Role Purpose The Sales Support Manager provides overall leadership and strategic direction to the Sales Support function, ensuring the consistent delivery of a high-quality, efficient, compliant, and customer-focused service. The role plays a critical part in enabling sales growth by ensuring robust pre- and post-sales processes, systems, and policies are in place across all customer segments. The post holder is accountable for operational performance, continuous improvement, and the ongoing development of a high-performing and engaged Sales Support team. Key Accountabilities Leadership & Strategy Provide strategic leadership across Sales Support for dual fuel and all customer segments, balancing customer needs, commercial outcomes, efficiency, and cost-to-serve. Create, own, and deliver the Sales Support strategy and continuous improvement roadmap across all market segments. Contribute to wider B2B Sales Strategy, ensuring customer onboarding and contract take-on are managed in line with agreed processes. Represent Sales Support in cross-functional project groups and own actions required to deliver agreed outcomes. Benchmark and embed industry best practice across sales setup and support activities. People Management & Culture Lead, develop, and motivate a team of circa 30 Sales Support colleagues through three direct-report Team Leaders. Build a high-performance culture with strong engagement, accountability, and continuous development. Ensure effective workforce planning to meet changing sales demand, optimising resource allocation across peaks and troughs. Ensure company people management processes are applied consistently, including performance management, development planning, and training programmes. Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement Ensure all Sales Support processes, policies, and procedures are fully documented, reviewed, and fit for purpose. Define, set, and manage quality standards to meet internal and external customer and partner expectations. Ensure accurate, complete, and “right-first-time” data input across all systems to minimise rework and downstream issues. Implement and maintain an optimal operating rhythm to support consistent communication and delivery of objectives. Develop and manage KPIs and SLAs, ensuring appropriate escalation and control mechanisms are in place. Systems, Data & Risk Management Own key Sales Support systems including Junifer, CRM, and CSPs, leading issue resolution, testing, and ongoing development. Ensure adherence to Sales Limits of Authority, internal risk frameworks (including INCOME), and delegated approval levels. Identify, manage, and mitigate financial, operational, and regulatory risk within the Sales Support function. Organise periodic self-audits and support ad-hoc audits as required. Stakeholder & Customer Management Manage workflows including tenders and pricing requests, working closely with Marketing, Products, Account Managers, and Sales Leadership. Maintain strong internal relationships across Retail, Finance, Legal, Operations, Marketing, and Product teams. Manage and resolve senior-level customer and partner escalations relating to contracting and sales setup. Ensure all sites remain covered by appropriate terms of supply, including renewals and termination notices. Support proposition development and product innovation through Sales Support insight and expertise. Reporting & Performance Management Deliver daily, weekly, and monthly performance reporting to Sales and Operational Leadership. Provide clear performance visibility at team and individual levels. Use insight and data to identify trends, control risks, and drive performance improvement. Outcomes & Key Performance Indicators Tenders and quotes processed in line with agreed SLAs. Positive contribution to sales performance and growth. Accurate and timely setup of quotes with minimal errors or rework. Effective support of Sales Teams to ensure contract documentation is complete and processed on time. Continuous improvement of Sales Support processes and operating efficiency. High engagement and performance of Sales Support teams. Compliance with regulatory requirements and internal governance frameworks. Reduced cost-to-serve without compromising quality or customer experience. Positive feedback from internal stakeholders and customers. Role Dimensions Leadership responsibility for circa 30 Sales Support colleagues. Three direct reports (Sales Support Team Leaders). Operational Manager-level role with ownership of key projects. Shared responsibility for approximately 40,000 quotes and £100m margin. Accountability for SLA, KPI, and compliance performance within Sales Support. Key Relationships Internal:Sales Leadership, Account Managers, Finance, Portfolio Management, Marketing, Products, Legal, Operations, Line Manager. External:Customers, Third-Party Intermediaries (brokers, consultants), National Grid Gas, OFGEM. Knowledge, Skills & Capabilities Strong commercial acumen with a focus on cost-to-serve and value creation. Proven leadership, people management, and motivational skills. Strong analytical capability with advanced Microsoft Excel and Office skills. Expertise in process improvement methodologies. Excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills. Ability to manage complex issues, assess risk, and make informed decisions. Strong understanding of Sales Support processes and cross-functional dependencies. Working knowledge of gas and electricity industry processes and regulatory requirements. Highly organised with the ability to manage competing priorities to tight deadlines. Experience & Qualifications Proven senior management experience within Sales Support or a related commercial function. Experience managing large teams in a fast-paced, sales-driven environment. Strong track record of managing senior internal and external stakeholders. Previous industry experience within energy or a regulated environment preferred. Degree-level qualification or equivalent relevant experience. Behavioural Competencies Customer-focused and results-driven. Strong sense of ownership and accountability. Strategic thinker with a continuous improvement mindset. Collaborative, resilient, and adaptable. High attention to detail and quality. Able to motivate and influence others at all levels.

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