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Job description

Northern Ireland’s gas Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) - Phoenix Energy, Kinecx Energy and Evolve are planning to research the potential household, decarbonisation and energy system benefits associated with Hybrid Heat Pumps through a large-scale (100 plus), NI wide, Hybrid Heating Trial between 2026 and 2028. As the Hybrid Heating Trial Manager, you will be responsible for managing the successful delivery of this Trial on behalf of the DNOs from its installation phase to final reporting phase. This will involve managing the Trial Delivery Team, the onboarding process for Trial participants, arranging the installation of the hybrid heat pump and monitoring equipment, managing communications with Trial participants, developing detailed quarterly and annual reports capturing the performance of the installed hybrid heat pumps and presenting the Trial’s results to stakeholders. This is an exciting opportunity for someone to lead the delivery of a priority project for the renewable gas industry. This is a permanent post.

Responsibilities

• With the assistance of the other members of the Trial Delivery Team, the Hybrid Heating Trial Manager will oversee the successful delivery of the proposed 100 plus home hybrid heating system trial within the agreed timelines and budget. This will inc
• Finalising the preparations for the commencement of the Trial, including the necessary documentation and procedures, internal and external communication material, supporting IT systems etc. ahead of commencing trial activity in Q2 2026
• Supporting the delivery of a marketing campaign designed to secure householder interest in participating in the Trial
• Ensuring the Trial is accurately weighted by determining the suitability of potential participants to take part in the Trial
• Engaging with installer partners to arrange the installation of the hybrid heat pump and monitoring equipment ensuring smooth execution and capturing installation data for Trial reporting
• Managing communications with Trial participants, developing and implementing a participant communications plan, addressing any issues that arise, and capturing engagement data for Trial reporting
• Managing the allocation of installation grants to Trial participants
• Regularly reviewing the monitoring data from the Trial to identify issues as they arise and produce regular updates for key stakeholders including the Department for the Economy and the Utility Regulator
• Undertaking analysis of the performance of the installed hybrid heat pumps to support the drafting of detailed annual performance reports and facilitating the independent review of the results by an independent academic evaluator
• Presenting the results of the Trial to internal and external stakeholders
• Working closely with the other gas DNOs, ensuring full representation in the development, delivery and reporting of this Trial.
• Managing the Trial budget, tracking costs, ensuring financial control and allocating resources effectively to meet Trial milestones
• Identify potential risks to project delivery and develop contingency plans
• Establish, develop and maintain effective working relationships with all work colleagues, the participating gas DNOs, contractors and partnering agencies to ensure a positive contribution to the successful delivery of trial activity.
• Observe and comply with policies and procedures for Health and Safety at Work and observe and continually promote equal opportunities and customer care in compliance with organisational aims and objectives.
• Participate in learning and development activities that develop personal effectiveness and assist in improving performance in the role.
• Undertake any other duties as may reasonably be required in line with the level of responsibility of the post and in order to meet the changing needs of the organisation.
• To promote and adhere to the workplace values of Respect All, Dynamic, Forward Looking, Serving Community Needs and Excel Together.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• A minimum of 2 years’ experience of playing a leading role in the delivery of a research project or trial OR
• Playing a leading role in the delivery and/or installation of low-carbon heating projects
• Experience of drafting succinct, structured, high quality written briefings for external and internal stakeholders
• Experience of reviewing, analysing and processing large volumes of data
• Experience of customer relationship management
• Ability to work under own initiative
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Methodical thinker with the ability to multi-task and work under pressure

Desirable Skills

• Experience of managing a research project or trial from start to finish
• Experience of collaborating on joint research projects with multiple external partner organisations
• Experience of delivering verbal presentations
• Experience of providing sustainable energy and sustainability advice to housing providers