Strategic Energy Delivery Manager

Are you ready to lead one of the most forward-thinking energy planning programmes in the UK?

We’re looking for a strategic and collaborative Local Area Energy Planning (LAEP) Delivery
Manager to join the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). This is a key leadership role at
the forefront of delivering place-based energy planning that supports our transition to a net
zero, inclusive, and economically vibrant region.

You’ll oversee the full delivery of our LAEP Programme by connecting policy, people, data, and
innovation to shape a regional approach that works for all. From engaging with local
authorities and national stakeholders, to securing investment and managing delivery, this is a
chance to drive real impact at a critical time for local energy systems.

This is more than a delivery role. It’s an opportunity to shape the systems and partnerships
needed to accelerate net zero in one of the UK’s most diverse and dynamic regions. You’ll be
working in an organisation committed to inclusive growth, regional leadership, and driving
meaningful change both locally and nationally.

What you will be doing.

• Leading the planning, coordination, and delivery of digital Local Area Energy Plans across
  the West Midlands
• Acting as the main point of contact with NESO and other key national bodies, ensuring
  regulatory frameworks support regional ambitions
• Working directly with local authority partners to help develop their place-based approaches
  to energy infrastructure. Supporting Net Zero Neighborhoods, new Investment and Growth Zones
  and opportunities from heat networks.
• Representing WMCA at senior-level briefings
• Overseeing major externally funded projects, including the PRIDE SIF innovation project
• Producing high-quality communications, including stakeholder updates, Mayoral briefings,
  board reports and funding bids
• Informing business cases for regional investment in energy infrastructure
• Collaborating closely with finance and programme teams to keep delivery on track and within
  budget
• Supporting the development of colleagues and contributing to a collaborative team culture

What’s essential.

• Significant experience in local energy planning or local authority decarbonisation
  programmes
• A strong understanding of the energy sector and how to navigate multi-stakeholder
  environments
• Strong project and programme management skills including project governance, delivery
  planning, risk, issue and dependency management, change control, lessons learnt
• Excellent analytical and decision-making capabilities
• A good grasp of local government structures and working practices
• Confident communication and influencing skills, especially with senior stakeholders
• A collaborative approach and a commitment to developing others
• A strong interest in innovation, learning, and continual improvement

Location. 

The location for this role is Summer Lane with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.

Salary and benefits.

We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary
point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate.
This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and
appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will
not be considered.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Local Government Pension Scheme (one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK).
• 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more), giving you have ample time to
  relax.
• Ethical saving options and healthcare plans.
• Discounted gym membership.
• An option to buy a bicycle, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted
  rate.
• 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
• Interest free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology
• Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes,
and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring
everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call
home.

We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our
partners to direct funding where it’s needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise
will help make a big difference, improving people’s lives, every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant
(Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times
Top 50 Employers for Women. We’re a Disability Confident Employer with ‘Leader’ status,
committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role
criteria.

We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to
apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage
individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We
value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable
ones, even if they don’t fit the traditional “perfect candidate” mould.

We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don’t let these
factors deter you from applying.

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home
Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.

Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK
Visas and Immigration (UKVI).