Network Development Manager

Position Description

In ESB Networks we have a central role in leading the transition to a secure and affordable low-carbon future, using clean electricity to drive carbon, in the form of fossil fuels, out of heat, transport and the economy. Delivering on our Strategy will require a challenging transformation of our network, our systems, and our approach. In our Strategy we have outlined our planned actions which will enable meeting the Climate Action Plan goals as well as putting society on a path to achieve net zero.

ESB Networks’ Network Development area is responsible for planning the medium and long-term reinforcement of the high voltage, medium voltage and low voltage distribution network to enable the Climate Action Plan targets and ESB Networks’ Networks for Net Zero Strategy with a particular focus on the areas of electrification of heat and transport; connection of large demand customer; connection of renewables and development of policies and standards.

Network Planners work closely with other functions within ESB Networks, with Engineering and Major Projects and with EirGrid, in the design and delivery of network plans.

Delivering on our Strategy will require a challenging transformation of our network, our systems, and our approach.

Key Responsibilities

We are currently seeking to fill in the Network Development Manager North vacancy in Network Development Team.

Network Development Manager North is responsible for:

• Leading Northwest, Central and Northeast (excluding Dublin North) regional Network Development teams.
• Development of Price Review submissions outlining high and medium voltage reinforcements in the North regions including 20 kV conversion. Implementation of Price Review projects to handover to delivery including preparation and/or approval of Investment Appraisals and Technical Approvals and engagements with EirGrid on Connection Agreements.
• Timely delivery of large customer connection offers according to the connection policy.
• Completion of all renewable generation connection studies according to CRU requirements.
• Engagements with Local Authorities and large customers in the North regions to establish future growth of demand, discuss site requirements for new substations, provide support for any technical queries from customers and stakeholders in the region.
• Engagements with renewable industry bodies (WEI, ISEA, ESA), CRU and DCEE on the implantation of the ECP-GSS connection policy and Renewable Energy Directives.
• Collaboration with Delivery Organisation on timing of various projects, specific project related challenges and solutions for Limited Capacity Areas.
• Supporting the digitalisation of Distribution System Planning processes and increasing efficiency within the department to facilitate energy transformation and significant increase in the volume of connection applications to the distribution system.
• Reporting and regular updates on customer connections and reinforcement projects for the three North regions.
• Proactively look for ways to use data analytics solution to help the business move to a data driven approach to decision making.
• Work closely with Network Assets (overhead lines, underground cables, and MV substations), Commercial section, and DMSO, in support of introducing changes to business processes.
• Engaging with the business on the Networks for Net Zero Strategy, Network Development strategic targets and actions to deliver on them.
• Engaging across the business on the new initiatives and policy directions within the Network Development to ensure they are delivered and embedded within the business.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential

• 10 plus years relevant work experience is essential.
• Strong leader who will be able to work with senior stakeholders and with the planning teams to implement the required change processes.
• Good understanding of the key business challenges and opportunities for ESB Networks, our customers and our stakeholders as we transition to a lower carbon energy system in Ireland.
• Self-motivated with ability to plan and communicate requirements to progress new initiatives, and a track record of delivering of work/and or projects, with the ability to delegate and assign work to others to ensure on time completion of work in line with priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, experience leading cross functional initiatives, to solve problems and get the job done.
• An inquisitive mind and willingness to challenge conventional models.
• Comprehensive stakeholder management and communications skills, both external and internal, proficient across the range up to and including at a senior stakeholder level.
• Ability to effectively communicate with business, technical and IT stakeholders.
• Ability to act independently and take initiative.
• Strong technical background and understanding of distribution system planning, capable of informed judgements / contributing to alternatives discussions and decision making, to support and facilitate the prioritised projects progressing.
• Proven track record of success contributing to the training and development of technical professionals.
• Proven ability to work with other functions, including cross-divisional and external stakeholders to achieve business objectives.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and manage a number of conflicting and frequently changing priorities.

Desirable

• Knowledge of PR5/PR6 programmes and company direction, CRU, TSO, industry, including government policies and Climate Action Plan.
• A clear understanding of ESB Networks business, structure, processes and commercial operating model.
• An understanding of electrical engineering principles & network modelling software
• New Process Development & Deployment with measurable KPIs.
• Experience in risk management; the identification, assessment, mitigation, tracking, control and management of project risks.

Qualifications

• A primary degree in Engineering or equivalent work experience (of a minimum of 10+ years) is essential. 

Location

Flexible. There will be a requirement to attend regular meetings with other team members and stakeholders who are primarily Dublin based.

ESB is committed to offering flexibility in ways of working and we call that Smart Working – combining digital tools with a culture of trust and empowerment to enable flexible and remote ways of working.

The successful candidate may combine remote / smart working within the jurisdiction, with attendance at base for in-person collaboration, the frequency of which is agreed with the manager and subject to ongoing review.

ESB is one of the founding members of The Remote Alliance – a new initiative established by the social enterprise Grow Remote. Working with other like-minded members, we’ve committed to developing solutions that will ensure remote and hybrid working can become a sustainable part of our business.

Reporting to

Network Development Manager, ESB Networks

Why Work with Us?

• Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future.
• Career development through mentoring and training. 
• Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities.
• Sports and Social Clubs.
• Networking opportunities.
• Credit Union.
• Generous Pension.
• Access to staff well-being programmes.
• Generous parental leave entitlements.
• Strong values-based and inclusive culture.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 
• Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted.

Salary

€86,000 to €101,000 per annum

Closing Date 

29th January 2026