Meridian services group is hiring a Strategic Planning Lead for a long-term pipe replacement project in Illinois. This position is on site and offers excellent compensation, per diem, and access to company benefits!

The pipe replacement project (PRP) Strategic Planning Lead position is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and monitoring of the strategic plan for execution of the PRP that aligns with the ICC regulatory requirements and company goals. This role supports the executive leadership team in shaping long-term strategy and ensuring alignment with corporate priorities. The position partners closely with Engineering, Finance, Project Management, Regulatory Affairs, and Construction to drive data-driven decision-making and ensure that the project remains in compliance with the ICC order regarding execution of the PRP.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Execution
• Lead the development of multi-year comprehensive PRP strategic plans, annual business plans, and key performance targets.
• Facilitate strategy sessions with leadership and project teams to align long-term objectives, execution goals, and risk mitigation priorities.
• Translate PRP strategy into actionable goals for PRP teams and track progress against targets.
Execution Analysis
• Monitor regulatory changes and project execution dynamics that impact the PRP strategic plan.
• Benchmark against peer utilities to identify opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Develop economic and scenario analysis to support PRP execution decisions, rate case filings, and project planning.
Financial & Operational Alignment
• Partner with Finance to align strategic plans with capital budgets, rate recovery mechanisms, and long-term financial forecasts.
• Support Operations planning in prioritizing PRP projects (e.g., pipe replacement, integrity management) to meet system reliability and safety goals.
• Recommend portfolio adjustments to maximize shareholder value while maintaining compliance with state public service commission mandates.
Executive Reporting & Communication
• Prepare and deliver PRP strategic plan updates, board reports, and executive presentations to Group leadership.
• Communicate strategic priorities and key metrics throughout the organization to ensure enterprise-wide alignment.
• Support stakeholder engagement efforts with regulators, municipalities, and community partners by providing PRP strategic insights.
Cross-Functional Leadership
• Collaborate with Regulatory Affairs, Engineering, Project Management teams to ensure strategies are comprehensive and executable.
• Drive cross-functional initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce project risks, and improve PRP program/project performance.
Continuous Improvement
• Evaluate and refine planning processes to increase agility and responsiveness to project execution and regulatory changes.
• Track performance indicators (financial, construction, etc…) and recommend corrective actions as needed.
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Qualifications
Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Engineering, or a related field (MBA or equivalent advanced degree strongly preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in strategic planning, corporate development, utility operations, or management consulting (natural gas or energy industry experience preferred).
• Proven ability to lead strategic planning cycles and present to senior executives and boards.