Director of UK National Agency for Geothermal Energy

Durham Energy Institute (DEI) at Durham University seeks to appoint a talented individual to the role of Director for the new National Agency for Geothermal Energy Innovation. This Agency will be a first for the UK. Never before has the UK had such an entity, outputs from which will help ensure energy security, sustainability and affordability for the whole nation.

The Director will be responsible for all aspects of establishing this new Agency, developing and growing its funding, staff, work programme, partnerships and engagement to create a world-leading Agency for geothermal energy innovation.

The establishment of this new Agency has been made possible by a donation from the Reece Foundation matched by funding from Durham University.

The Director will lead the creation of a UK national Agency in the understanding and development of geothermal energy as applied to the UK and in particular moving activity from research into deployment. This will require the successful candidate to collate and aggregate research occurring in academic institutions, commercial activity occurring in industry and the policy framework developing in national and local government to enable the UK to become a fast adopter and ultimately international leader in using geothermal energy and non-petroleum geoenergy in general to deliver a net zero future.

The Director will initially focus on developing external partnerships, setting strategic direction and priorities, identifying sustainable funding opportunities and financing options. A key part of the Director’s role will be to generate additional funding to grow and develop the Agency and its staff.

We welcome applications from those with a deep and broad interest in geothermal energy and associated non-fossil fuel geoenergy.

The successful candidate will have managerial and project leadership experience, including being able to construct and execute business plans, and will be able to demonstrate delivery of nationally significant past projects. They will also be experienced in driving change both within their employer’s organisation and beyond at a regional or national level.

Applicants must demonstrate research capabilities together with a deep knowledge of regulatory, operational and commercial aspects in the field of Geothermal Energy with the ability to engage effectively with government, industry, local councils and all stakeholders in the emerging UK geothermal market. The applicant must also fully engage in the services, citizenship and values of the University.

This post offers an exciting opportunity to make a major contribution to the development of geothermal energy in the UK and beyond as well as lead and/or drive internationally excellent research, innovation and external engagement while allowing you unrivalled opportunities to progress and embed your career in an exciting and progressive university.

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