Head of Engineering - OHL

About the job

Head of Engineering Overhead Transmission Lines (UK)

United Kingdom | Full-time | Senior Leadership

We are seeking a Head of Engineering (Overhead Transmission Lines, OHL) to lead our UK technical and engineering operations. This is a pivotal leadership role for an accomplished Chartered Engineer with extensive HV/EHV OHL experience and a proven track record in delivering complex, large-scale transmission projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop technical roadmaps and standard interfaces for OHL in the UK, ensuring compliance with BS/EN/IEC/ENA standards.
• Lead system integration design and engineering implementation of CICA cross-arms, conductors, fittings, and towers.
• Drive product type testing, certification, and inclusion into Transmission Owners Approved Product List (APL).
• Support constructability, technical solutions, and HSE compliance for line uprating and new build projects.
• Serve as the technical interface to customers, supporting bids, clarifications, and deviation management.
• Collaborate with the Group CTO to promote adoption of new materials and processes.
• Ensure safety in design best practice across projects, with focus on CDM and ESQCR compliance.
• Manage the development, wellbeing, recruitment, and budgeting of the department.
• Oversee quality systems to ensure robust technical governance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Act as focal point for engagement with internal and external senior stakeholders.

Experience & Qualifications

• BSc in Electrical Engineering (MBA desirable).
• Chartered Engineer in a relevant discipline.
• 15+ years of HV/EHV OHL engineering experience.
• 5+ years in management or senior technical roles within UK transmission projects (TO, EPC, consultancy, or utility).
• Proven leadership across the full lifecycle of OHL projects: design, approval, testing, commissioning.

Technical & Leadership Skills

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking, with the ability to deliver under changing conditions.
• In-depth knowledge of transmission engineering disciplines, industry standards, and design requirements.
• Expertise in safety legislation (CDM, ESQCR) and network operations.
• Advanced understanding of project controls, technical governance, and capital project delivery.
• Commercial acumen: balancing CapEx/OpEx, regulatory frameworks, and investment cases.
• Strong contractual and procurement knowledge (NEC3, commercial strategies).
• Established network and credibility with consultants, contractors, and industry stakeholders.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the UKs transmission network of the futureleading innovation in OHL design, new materials adoption, and large-scale project delivery. You will have full responsibility for building and leading a high-performing engineering team, while engaging directly with senior stakeholders across the industry.