Job Description

Lead Consultant

Who We Are

Util-Assist is a leading consulting and services company to electric, water, and gas utilities, with customers throughout Canada and the United States. Utilities today are undergoing an exciting digital transformation; the widespread deployment of smart grid technologies and renewable energy sources is colliding with customer demand for electric vehicles, energy savings, and better customer experiences to produce a dramatic shift in how utilities do business. Util-Assist is at the forefront of that shift.

Our vision is to be the trusted partner in driving digital innovation that reshapes the utility landscape. To bring that vision to life, Util-Assist is leading the way in helping utilities take advantage of the latest developments in utility IT, with growing practices for data analytics and customer experience consulting building on our well-established smart grid procurement and implementation management services. Our managed services division leverages advancements in utility IT systems to deliver a variety of services to utility customers, including outage communications management, managed billing, and AI-enabled substation security monitoring.

Teamwork is key to the success of the Util-Assist family; mutual respect, cooperation, and honesty are hallmarks of our principles. We offer a range of energizing, multi-disciplinary careers in a high-tech industry, with great potential for development and advancement as both the industry and our company continue to grow. Util-Assist’s flexible work environment allows you to choose the work arrangements that make the most sense for you. We will give you the tools and support to succeed in our business, wherever you are.

At Util-Assist, we pride ourselves on cultivating a welcoming, positive, and inclusive workplace. Thanks to our outstanding culture, we are the proud recipients of several national and local awards, including certification as a Great Place to Work (three years running) by Great Place to Work Institute® Canada, the Employee Recommended Workplace Award (three years in a row), the York Region Business of the Year award, and the Newmarket Large Business of the Year Award.

Util-Assist is an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to providing a barrier-free work environment and ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is demonstrated through our policies and practices, aligning with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). Join us to be a part of a team that values and celebrates diversity, and where your unique contributions can make a significant impact.

We’re excited to meet you! Learn more about Util-Assist at www.util-assist.com.

What We Need:

The Lead Consultant is responsible for leading the client relationship and working with members of the Consulting Team to provide client support on various projects. The incumbent is the lead consultant on engagements of all sizes and is accountable to ensure project objectives are achieved and consistent with organizational service standards.

What You’ll Do:

Prepare and deliver presentations in support of our Business Development team to educate clients on our services and solutions and how our organization can assist the client
Prepare, lead, and validate outcomes of requirements gathering workshops with clients
Prepare and deliver strategy, technical, and non-technical reports for client engagements
Participate in discussions with clients on project status
Provide guidance on subject matter expertise on current technologies in the market that are applicable to the project
Lead decision analysis discussions with clients as required
Prepare business cases and budgets for clients as required
Articulate business needs and describe how technology can improve the client’s business processes
Provide guidance and recommendations on integrations of client systems, staying aligned with best practices
Design and document solutions for client engagements and leverage team capabilities as required
Develop and sustain positive relationships with clients, ensure projects are progressing appropriately, and resolve certain escalated client issues
Communicate with C-suite level utility or vendor personnel regarding project requirements and status
Think “out of the box” to propose creative and unique solutions
Lead contract negotiations and legal discussions regarding contract language within areas of expertise as required
Oversee and direct the activities of the team and ensure that client deliverables are achieved
Transfer knowledge and support the development of the team in areas of expertise

What You Will Bring:

Skills

Expert communication skills (both verbal and written)
Expert presentation skills
Expert Microsoft Office skills
Expert analytical, problem solving, and decision-making skills
Expert ability to develop and foster positive stakeholder relationships
Advanced facilitation skills
Advanced leadership skills
Advanced ability to simplify and document business requirements and processes
Intermediate coaching/mentoring and training skills
Intermediate business development skills
Basic project management skills
Basic financial management skills

Knowledge

Expert knowledge of multiple vendors’ AMI and MDM solutions with a solid understanding of what is current in the AMI/MDM market and emerging technology
Strong knowledge of AMI integration with peripheral utility systems (e.g., ADMS, OMS, GIS, asset management, web presentment, data lake/analytics platforms, etc.)
Knowledge of smart cities solutions with a solid understanding of what is current in the market and where the technology is going
Expert knowledge of the meter-to-cash process for utilities
Extensive experience working with C-suite executives
Experience presenting to small and large groups (e.g., able to lead small meetings and successfully deliver presentations at industry conferences)
Experience negotiating with vendors with an ability to articulate the business needs and detailed technical requirements
Experience developing business cases and creating budgets

Experience

10 years of experience working with advanced metering infrastructure (AMI)
10 years of experience working with meter data management (MDM)
10 years of experience working with systems integration in the utility space
10 years of experience working with utilities
5+ years’ experience leading large scale, complex advanced metering initiatives, preferably in a professional service consultant organization
Undergraduate degree/diploma in Computer/Data Science, Business Administration, Engineering or a related technical field
The ability to travel within North America and work at a variety of client sites is required

Working Conditions

Work-life balance with flexible hybrid working arrangements
Hybrid office environment
The ability to travel to client sites throughout Canada and the U.S.
The ability to secure a U.S. visa to enable work in the U.S. or a Canadian visa to work in Canada
A successful SIN and passport clearance along with a police vulnerability check is required

Company Benefits

Innovative Work Environment: Be part of a dynamic and innovative company at the forefront of technological advancements
Competitive Compensation: Receive a competitive package reflective of your expertise and contributions
Career Growth Opportunities: Flourish in a fast-growing organization where your career advancement is encouraged and supported
Vibrant Workplace Culture: Experience a fun, social, and award-winning culture where teamwork and collaboration thrive
Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access resources and support through our EAP, including Nutritional Health Coaching, to enhance your well-being
Parental Leave Program: option to participate in our top-up program for parental leave
Comprehensive Benefits Package: A streamlined and quick enrollment process, with Health, Dental and other benefits covered by the employer
Retirement Planning: Plan for your future with our retirement plan, including employer matching, to help you achieve your long-term financial goals
Exclusive Memberships & Offers: Access special rates for you and your family for fitness membership, mobile and data plans and vehicle purchase program
Birthday Lieu Day: Each year on your birthday, we offer all employees a lieu day (apart from regular vacation & work anniversary day addition) to celebrate your special day your way!