Grid Connections Manager – Data Centre

Location: London, hybrid (2–3 days in office, plus site and network operator visits as needed)
Salary: £85,000 – £105,000 + 15% bonus + car allowance + pension + private healthcare

The opportunity

365 Recruitment is partnering with a leading UK colocation operator to appoint a Grid Connections Manager to secure power for its growing portfolio of data centre campuses. You'll own grid connections from first application through to energisation, and play a central role in the business's expansion plans.

Key responsibilities

• Lead grid connection applications with DNOs, IDNOs and National Grid (NGET/NESO) for new and expanding data centre sites.
• Manage the portfolio's position through connections reform (Gate 2) and queue management, protecting existing capacity and securing new capacity.
• Assess, challenge and negotiate connection offers, including cost, programme, securities and liabilities.
• Manage connection agreements through to energisation, covering contestable and non-contestable works.
• Appoint and manage ICPs, grid consultants and specialist contractors.
• Work with design, construction and commissioning teams so power delivery lines up with build programmes.
• Oversee wayleaves, easements and land rights linked to grid connections.
• Carry out early grid capacity analysis and feasibility studies to support site selection and acquisition.
• Evaluate alternative power options, including onsite generation, BESS, private wire and flexible connections.
• Track regulatory and market changes (Ofgem, NESO, DNO policy), and advise leadership on the risks and opportunities.
• Act as the main point of contact with network operators, local authorities and external consultants.
• Own the connections budget and forecast, including securities and connection charges.
• Report monthly to senior leadership on the connections portfolio, covering progress, risks, costs and energisation dates.