objective 1 lead (senior Utility advisor)RTI International

Objective 1 Lead (Senior Utility Advisor)
USAID Energy Secure Philippines Project
RTI International, on behalf of its subcontractor, Wisenergy Inc., is requesting applications for an Objective 1 Lead (Senior Utility Advisor) on a USAID-funded energy project in the Philippines. The goal of the USAID Energy Secure Philippines is to enhance the energy security and reliability of the Philippines electric power grid.
The Senior Utility Advisor will lead the Objective 1 focused on improving electric utility performance. The Objective 1 Lead is responsible for improving the technical and commercial performance of selected power utilities by implementing management and low-cost infrastructure improvements. The USAID ESP Activity with Objective 1 as the Lead will introduce methodologies, tools, cutting-edge analytic systems, and other technology applications to upgrade performance standards, improve operational efficiencies, and strengthen the financial and operational position of power utilities.
Specific Responsibilities
Work with selected power utilities in improving operational efficiency such as business process redesign, assessment of key performance indicators, identification of best practices, design and implementation of non-technical loss-reduction programs, and gap assessment in skills and training of power utility staff.
Lead the achievement of committed performance indicators to USAID Philippines within the timeline committed by the project.
Lead the development and implementation of the Utility Improvement and Reliability Plans that are tailored-fit to the operations and utility requirements of the partner power utilities.
Lead technical and performance assessment of selected power utilities as these serve as technical inputs in developing the utility improvement and reliability plans. These may include but not limited to cost-benefit analysis, system loss analysis, evaluation to compliance with distribution grid code and ERC-mandated performance indicators, and analysis of capital expenditure and business plans for investment projects.
Lead the review and recommend improvements to power utility's customer satisfaction services.
Interact with partner power utility, government agencies such as Department of Energy and Energy Regulatory Commission as may be needed, project developers, and other stakeholders involved with electric power infrastructure projects.
Travel to project locations to execute technical activities and supervise staff.
Lead technical teams, supervising in-house and consultant staff and ensuring schedule and delivery.
Provide leadership in managerial and operational aspects of assistance to partner power utilities.
Provide support and capacity building to partner power utilities to improve planning, management processes and capabilities, and technical and operational procedures, and enforce accountability for losses and collections.
Support utility counterparts to implement plans, implement management, and leadership and conduct activities that improve billing and collections.
Facilitate adoption of policies that improve business processes, systems, and maintenance culture; ensure effective training and development; lower transaction costs; create a more competitive transaction-enabling environment; attract investment capital; and provide a climate of transparency, reliability, and predictability for investors.
Lead coordination of Objective 1 inputs to reporting and deliverables as required, including but not limited to weekly progress reports, quarterly reports, annual reports etc.
Required Minimum Qualification and Experience
Master's degree in engineering, economics, or a related field and 12 years of related professional experience or bachelor's degree in engineering, economics, or a related field and 15 years of related professional experience.
Minimum of 12 years' experience in utility planning, with 5 years direct international work experience in developing countries.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Demonstrated experience increasing operational efficiencies of power utilities
Demonstrated experience strengthening financial viability of power utilities
Demonstrated experience building capacity within the sector
Demonstrated management skills
Demonstrated attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines and work independently and cooperatively with team members.
Strong oral/written communication skills and ability to communicate at multiple levels in the organization: and ability to coordinate activities with officials from host country government, US Government, NGO's, and other agencies.
Ability to build effective relationships with all clients, peers, and stakeholders
Ability to work hands-on, independently, and within team.
Demonstrated success managing and leading technical and administrative teams.
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team-oriented setting.
Experience in general business administration and financial management.
English language proficiency.
Additional Information
RTI International

Manila City, Metro Manila
Permanent
Full-time