Build the future of the high-voltage grid in Flanders

A well-developed electricity grid is essential to sustain and further grow Belgian prosperity for both households and businesses. This need is reinforced by the current transition towards a low-carbon society and the geopolitical context of increased European energy independence.

As transmission system operator and developer of the high-voltage grid, Elia plays a key role. The Grid Projects North department is responsible for delivering investment projects aimed at expanding the high-voltage grid in Flanders. This includes projects for connecting industrial customers, strengthening transformation substations towards distribution system operators, and reinforcing the underlying transmission grid.

The overall investment portfolio for Flanders is regionally divided into four portfolios. 

Our investment portfolio is growing significantly in the coming years, with a strong focus on timely delivery for society, a cost-conscious approach and safety as the highest priority for all stakeholders.

Function

The Program Manager is responsible for one or more programs. He/she is accountable for defining, managing, coordinating, administratively monitoring and communicating the portfolio of strategic infrastructure projects (= program). This responsibility spans the full lifecycle: conceptual phases, planning, engineering, permitting and public acceptance, procurement, construction and initial operation.

Transversal collaboration and portfolio steering

• You define the required strategy and follow-up together with internal departments: Customers Market & Systems (CMS), Procurement, Grid Relations and External Relations.
• In collaboration with the PMO, you establish portfolio budgets, schedules and resource needs.
• You define the permitting strategy and coordinate the activities required to obtain permits, in collaboration with the program Grid Relations Officer.
• You report to the Manager Grid Projects on program structure and governance and, once needs are validated, on project definition and progress.

Leadership and accountability for the program team

• You take a leadership role in building and guiding a high-performing program team.
• You further develop expertise by sharing experience and lessons learned across the program.
• You act as the face and primary point of contact for the program.
• You hold overall accountability for delivering the program within budget and schedule and in line with safety, environmental and quality standards.

Your Profile

• Minimum 8 years’ experience managing infrastructure or technical projects
• Master’s degree in industrial or civil engineering
• Fluent Dutch with good command of English and French
• Experience in project management (PMI/PMP certification or equivalent)
• Strong people management skills, both hierarchical and matrix-based
• Experience in planning, resource management, financial management and risk management
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills (internal and external)

Offer

Location