Description We are currently recruiting a Senior Innovation Development Specialist to join our Asset and Digital division. This role reports to the Manager of Innovation and plays a strategic role in integrating innovation initiatives across Essential Energy and its external stakeholders. The preferred location for this role is Port Macquarie. The Senior Innovation Development Specialist leads the adoption of new products, systems, and technologies through effective change management, stakeholder engagement, and communication strategies. This role ensures innovations align with customer needs, community expectations, and regulatory standards, while reflecting Essential Energy’s values and commercial goals. Key Responsibilities Lead and execute the integration of innovation strategies across internal and external stakeholders Develop and maintain strong stakeholder relationships to ensure alignment and effective communication Design and implement community engagement strategies to foster trust and collaboration Deliver training programs to support successful implementation of innovation initiatives Prepare and present reports and proposals to senior management and stakeholders Oversee communication efforts to ensure consistent messaging around innovation Apply a commercial mindset to optimize ROI and deliver value to customers and stakeholders Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in alignment with Essential Energy’s Code of Conduct About You As a Senior Innovation Development Specialist, you will bring strategic thinking, strong leadership, and a collaborative mindset. You will be experienced in managing complex projects, engaging diverse stakeholders, and driving innovation in dynamic environments. Required Qualifications/Skills Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Management, Engineering, or equivalent experience Minimum 10 years in a senior role within the energy sector or related industry Proven success in managing complex projects and transformation programs Experience in innovation, digital capability, and emerging technologies Strong stakeholder engagement across government, community, and industry Excellent communication, leadership, and project management abilities Commercial acumen in aligning innovation with business and customer needs Desirable: IAP2 Certificate of Engagement or equivalent Knowledge of the electricity distribution or energy sector Why Join Essential Energy? We offer competitive remuneration commensurate with skills and experience. Essential Energy provides employees with a broad range of employee benefits through our corporate partnerships with organisations such as Qantas, Optus, nib and Mildura Health Fund. You will also gain access to our Health and Wellbeing programs including fitness passport. Visit our employee benefits page for more information. We are proud to be recognised as a WORK180 Endorsed Employer for All Women. At Essential Energy, we’re committed to inclusion, diversity, and supporting regional communities. Our culture values collaboration, respect, and balance—where your voice is heard and your contributions matter. For further information, please contact Brad Trethewey, Manager of Innovation on 0409 050 305. Applications close on Sunday 24 August at 11:55pm AEST. Passionate people. Global thinking. Regional heart. Building a better energy future. Essential Energy is committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourages applicants to apply regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.