With a focus on operational technology and digital transformation, Capula, part of the Dalkia Group, has been a leader in advanced system integration for decades; optimising efficiency & delivering performance on a massive scale. But with continuous innovation at the heart of our business, we've always got our sights set on the future. We work in some of the most highly regulated and challenging industrial environments, and have delivered critical projects across energy, water, renewables and manufacturing.
At Capula, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where diversity is celebrated in all its forms. We actively encourage applications from individuals of minority backgrounds, underrepresented groups, and those with disabilities. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives.
Summary of Role:
The Programme Manager - Energy Networks is responsible for leading the successful delivery of complex Operational Technology / Information Technology programmes and portfolios for Capulas energy network clients, including National Grid Electricity Transmission, National Grid Ventures, National Grid Distribution, ScottishPower Energy Networks, Scottish & Southern Energy Networks and their ecosystem of EPC partner organisations.
The role provides strategic leadership across multiple projects encompassing substation control and protection systems, operational cyber security, digital operations management, digital applications development, related infrastructure.
Acting as the senior client interface, the Programme Manager will develop strong relationships with client stakeholders, ensure alignment with client objectives and lead delivery teams to achieve excellent performance in safety, quality, schedule, commercial outcomes and customer satisfaction.
The Programme Manager will provide leadership throughout the full project lifecycle, from opportunity development, Early Contractor Involvement / FEED and mobilisation through design, testing, commissioning and operational handover.
Key Responsibilities:Safety Leadership:
Champion a positive safety culture aligned with Capula and client expectations for safe delivery in high-hazard operational environments.
Ensure compliance with applicable Capula QESH (Quality, Environment, Security and Health & Safety) requirements, UK Government Regulations, industry standards and Capula procedures.
Lead by example in driving behavioural safety, proactive risk identification and shared accountability for safe outcomes.
Ensure safety considerations are embedded into planning, design, site mobilisation, commissioning and handover activities.
Client and stakeholder leadership:
Act as a senior point of contact for the client, ensuring consistent, transparent communication regarding project / programme progress, finance, risks, and opportunities.
Build and maintain long-term client relationships, understanding client needs, priorities, and expectations.
Lead regular client meetings, at both governance and operational delivery levels, provide clear and accurate project updates, and address client concerns proactively.
Develop and implement strategies to ensure client satisfaction and promote Capula as a trusted delivery partner across the Electricity Transmission market.
Project & Programme Leadership and Execution:
Oversee the end-to-end delivery of Energy Networks projects and programmes, ensuring compliance with budget, schedule, safety, and quality standards.
Provide direction & leadership to cross-functional teams, including engineering, procurement, quality, and regulatory compliance, to ensure successful project outcomes.
Establish programme structures, delivery strategies, governance frameworks and reporting rhythms appropriate to the client and contract environment.
Monitor project progress against milestones, promptly addressing any issues that may impact client deliverables or timelines.
Maintain an adaptive approach to project & programme management, making adjustments as required to meet changing client or project demands
Work with Capula planners and Project Managers to ensure the creation and maintenance of comprehensive resource and cost loaded project plans aligned with tender and client requirements.
Risk Management & Change Control:
Identify potential risks & opportunities and implement management strategies in collaboration with project teams and the client.
Regularly review project risks, updating clients on risk status and adjustments to risk management strategies.
Forecast and resolve potential issues that could affect progress or project success.
Work closely with commercial and QS teams to manage NEC3/NEC4 contract obligations, Early Warnings, Compensation Events, programme updates and change control.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:
Ensure that all project activities comply with relevant regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
Work closely with the client to communicate regulatory requirements and ensure that project deliverables align with compliance standards.
Lead quality assurance processes, ensuring the project adheres to high safety and quality standards from inception to completion.
Stakeholder Communication and Reporting:
Prepare detailed project reports for both internal stakeholders and the client, presenting technical and non-technical information in an accessible format.
Facilitate regular internal reviews and client presentations to communicate project progress, budget status, and risk assessments.
Foster collaboration and alignment among all stakeholders, including contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies, to meet client objectives.
Continuous Improvement and Lessons Learned:
Conduct post-project reviews with the client to gather feedback and identify lessons learned for future projects.
Identify opportunities for improvement in project management processes and client engagement strategies.
Implement improvements to ensure higher efficiency and client satisfaction on future projects.
Financial Forecasting & Delivery Performance:
Ensure accurate forecasting of project and programme financial costs, including direct labour, third-party costs and materials.
Maintain or improve as-sold project and programme margin performance.
People Leadership and Development:
Provide leadership, direction and line management to Project Managers and wider programme delivery personnel, creating a high-performance culture focused on safety, accountability, collaboration, client satisfaction and delivery excellence.
Support the recruitment, onboarding, development and retention of project management talent, undertaking regular performance reviews, coaching and mentoring to build capability, succession strength and future leadership within the Energy Networks portfolio.
Establish clear objectives and performance expectations for Project Managers, ensuring alignment with programme priorities, business objectives, client commitments and Capula delivery standards.
Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development, encouraging the attainment of relevant project management, commercial, leadership and technical competencies.
Work collaboratively with resource managers and functional leaders to ensure appropriate allocation, utilisation and development of project management resources across the portfolio.
Lead by example in demonstrating Capula's values, fostering employee engagement, wellbeing, inclusion and effective communication across geographically dispersed teams and client sites.
Key Skills and Competencies:
Client-Centric Mindset: Exceptional relationship management skills with the ability to anticipate client needs, address concerns, and foster trust and confidence.
Project Management Expertise: Strong track record of delivering large-scale, complex projects, ideally within the energy networks, power generation or civil/defence nuclear sectors.
Technical Knowledge: Baseline understanding of energy networks project operations, regulations, and industry standards, with the ability to communicate technical information to non-technical clients.
Leadership and Team Management: Proven experience in leading cross-functional teams and aligning team efforts with client and project goals.
Risk and Crisis Management: Skilled in identifying and mitigating project risks and handling crises with composure and strategic foresight.
Effective Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of presenting information clearly and persuasively to clients and internal teams.
Analytical and Strategic Thinking: Strong analytical skills for problem-solving and strategic planning, with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Commercial Knowledge: Previous experience and knowledge of working to NEC 3 / 4 contracts.
Qualifications and Experience:
Minimum of 10 years of experience in project / programme / portfolio management, preferably in the energy sector, with demonstrated experience in client-facing roles.
Professional Certification (APM, PRINCE2, MSP, MoP etc) preferred.
Comprehensive knowledge of energy networks industry or similar highly regulated industries regulations and best practices.
Proven track record of managing complex, high-budget projects and meeting client requirements.
Key Success Metrics:
Client Satisfaction: Measured through client feedback, recurring business, and client engagement levels.
Project Delivery: Meeting key project milestones on schedule and within budget.
Financial: Forecasting accurately and achieving as-sold project margins
Risk Management Effectiveness: Ability to foresee and mitigate project risks effectively.
Quality Assurance: Successful project delivery that meets safety, quality, and compliance standards.
This role is ideal for a results-driven, client-focused project management professional with a strong background in the energy industry or complex technical project delivery and a passion for fostering lasting client relationships.
In return Capula offers the following benefits to permanent employees
28 days holiday plus bank holidays
Flexible working
Pension
Life assurance policy
Private health care
Lifestyle screening
Salary sacrifice programme
Mental health assistance programme
Cycle to work scheme
Green car scheme
Opportunities for professional development and growth within the company
Professional memberships fees covered/study support
NOTE TO EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES: We are currently working with only our preferred suppliers.
