Great British Energy - Nuclear is an arm's length body of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, dedicated to supporting the development and deployment of new nuclear technologies in Great Britain. We play a crucial role in advancing nuclear new build, ensuring the UK's energy security and achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Great British Energy - Nuclear focuses on fostering innovation, facilitating investment, and coordinating efforts across the nuclear industry to build a resilient and sustainable energy future.



Great British Energy - Nuclear' s first step was to start the technology selection process for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in 2023. SMRs can potentially be quicker to deploy and less expensive to build than traditional nuclear power plants because they are smaller, have factory based modular manufacturing and more flexible deployment options.



In 2026 Great British Energy - Nuclear signed a contract with Rolls-Royce SMR, formally commencing technology design activities that will enable the delivery of the UK's first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as part of the Government's clean energy mission.



Great British Energy - Nuclear is aiming to deliver fast, based on a supportive and collaborative culture which values equality and diversity and creates an inclusive workplace. We draw on deep nuclear expertise - our Executive Committee has over 100 years of nuclear experience at home and abroad.



Great British Energy - Nuclear will unlock billions of pounds of private and public investment from design to operation, helping to get sites ready for development, and working to grow manufacturing capacity and skills capability.



The Role



As Project Delivery Director (Technology Partner Scope), reporting to the Chief Delivery Officer, you will play a critical leadership role in establishing and leading the project delivery capability for one of the UK's most significant clean energy programmes. Accountable for the successful delivery of the Technology Partner scope within the SMR project, you will build and lead an Intelligent Client team, integrating project management, technical and commercial expertise to drive performance, governance and delivery outcomes.



You'll own the integrated project schedule, ensuring the right people, processes, controls and capabilities are in place from day one, while embedding robust reporting, assurance, governance and cost management frameworks. Over the next two years, your primary focus will be the management of the Technology Partner design contract, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to monitor performance, manage interfaces and ensure alignment with the wider SMR programme.



The Person



We're seeking an exceptional project delivery leader with a proven track record of leading major construction and infrastructure programmes in complex, highly regulated environments. You will bring extensive experience of NEC4 contract management, alliance delivery models, CDM compliance and construction site mobilisation, coupled with strong budget, risk and supply chain management expertise.



A strategic and influential leader, you will have successfully built and led high-performing project teams, both through direct and matrix management, and be comfortable engaging with Boards, government stakeholders and senior executives. You'll combine deep project management expertise with strong analytical skills, using data, systems and performance insights to drive successful outcomes. Experience within the nuclear sector or similarly regulated industries, including implementing enterprise project management tools and dashboards, is highly desirable.



Qualifications



Essential

• Degree in a related field or demonstrable professional experience

Desirable:

• Professional registration with a relevant association

This is a unique opportunity to help deliver the UK's first Small Modular Reactor programme. Success will require outstanding project delivery, commercial and supplier management expertise, alongside the ability to build high-performing teams, navigate complexity and manage risk in a fast-paced environment. As a first-of-a-kind project, you will be comfortable operating with uncertainty, ambiguity and change, bringing the leadership and resilience needed to shape and deliver a nationally significant programme.



Join us and play a pivotal role in a landmark project that will leave a legacy for decades to come, shaping not just infrastructure, but the world we pass on to the next generation.




GatenbySanderson has been appointed as our Executive Search adviser to assist with this recruitment process.



Should you wish to have a confidential discussion about the role please contact:



Zoe Bennett, Principal Researcher: gbentp@gatenbysanderson.com



At GBE-N, we are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups. If you require any support or adjustments to help you with your application, please contact GatenbySanderson, who are happy to provide assistance.



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Recruitment Timetable



Closing date

5pm 7 October 2026



Long listing

15 October 2026



Short listing

27 October 2026




How to Apply

• Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.


• Detail any employment or education gaps.


• Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.


• Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.


• Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation. If you do not receive, please email contactus@gatenbysanderson.com