Location
London Borough of Tower Hamlets - Hybrid working

Hours
Full Time, Permanent

Salary
£56,154 - £59,394 (Grade K)

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Principal Energy Contracts Officer to lead the operational and commercial management of energy and water supplies across the London Borough of Tower Hamlets' diverse property portfolio, including the corporate estate, leisure centres, schools, parks, and housing blocks. This key role within the Energy and Sustainability Team is responsible for ensuring effective delivery of utility contracts, accurate billing, financial control, robust supplier performance management, and the integrity of energy and water data.

You will provide expert commercial and market insight to help the Council manage risk, control costs, and make informed decisions in a constantly evolving energy market. You will lead the Council's utility management activities, overseeing a significant utility expenditure portfolio, providing support across Council departments and schools, and playing a leading role in ensuring the Council receives best value from its energy and water contracts.

The role sits within the Housing and Regeneration Directorate’s Energy and Sustainability Team, which manages energy consumption, utility procurement, and energy performance across the Council's property portfolio and partner organisations. By working closely with a wide range of stakeholders, the team ensures public buildings are operated efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively, supporting essential services and the long-term needs of the communities served.

As Principal Energy Contracts Officer, you will take the lead on the Council's energy and water supply portfolio, ensuring contracts, suppliers, billing arrangements, and financial processes are managed effectively and efficiently. You will act as the Council's subject matter expert on utility supply matters, providing commercial advice and market intelligence to support strategic decision-making. The role combines contract management, financial oversight, supplier engagement, data management, and stakeholder support, offering significant variety and responsibility.

You will also support the delivery of utility services to schools and other partners, ensuring high standards of customer service, compliance, and value for money.

Our Benefits
Competitive salary starting at £56,154.
Local Government Pension Scheme membership.
Generous annual leave: 29 days, rising to 33 with 5+ years’ service, plus bank holidays and 3 additional days at Christmas.
Flexible and agile working to support work–life balance.
Staff money-saving schemes (e.g., rent deposit loans, season ticket loans).
Learning and development opportunities through our Learning Academy, with clear career development and leadership pathways.

Experience
Proven experience in commercial and operational management of energy and water contracts, preferably within a public sector or large property portfolio environment. Strong understanding of utility markets, contract management, supplier performance, and financial control is essential.

About you
Commercially minded with excellent analytical and negotiation skills. Ability to provide expert market insight and manage risk effectively. Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners. Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage a diverse and complex workload. Commitment to delivering value for money and high standards of customer service.

Qualifications
Relevant qualifications in energy management, contract management, or a related discipline are desirable but not essential. A strong track record and relevant experience will be considered equally valuable.