The UK’s ambitions for nuclear, renewable power and grid expansion face mounting risk from a shortage of next-generation plant leaders.
The gap could slow delivery of projects designed to cut emissions and strengthen long-term energy security according to recruiters Newman Stewart.
The country is entering a period of rapid infrastructure growth, spanning small modular reactors, energy-from-waste facilities and expanding distributed energy assets. These projects are central to lowering carbon output while improving resilience across the power system.
However, the leadership skills required to operate complex, high-integrity plants are not keeping pace with the scale of investment now planned.
Recruiters warn that shortages are emerging at precisely the point the energy transition demands faster delivery.
The firm reports a marked shift in what employers expect from plant leaders. Traditional operational management is no longer sufficient for low-carbon infrastructure. Today’s leaders must combine deep engineering competence across advanced technologies with digital and automation literacy.
This includes understanding AI, remote monitoring and high-integrity control systems.
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