Regional Operational Manager- Sussex

Southern Water; Hardham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water services provider is seeking a Regional Operations Manager for their Sussex region. The role involves strategic leadership of Water Supply Production teams, ensuring high-quality water services and operational resilience. Applicants should possess proven experience in operational leadership, enhance team performance, and manage financials effectively. Opportunities for progression into senior leadership roles are available. The organization values diverse perspectives and encourages applicants from all backgrounds.

Benefits

Competitive salary

£400 car allowance

Qualifications

• Proven operational leadership experience in water, utilities, engineering, or asset-intensive environments.
• Strong ability to inspire, coach, and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging senior stakeholders and regulators.
• Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and optimising operational expenditure.
• Understanding of supply chain processes and operational risk management.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and inspirational leadership to regional Water Supply Production teams.
• Drive performance against Water ODIs and regulatory targets.
• Lead business change across the region, fostering a culture of improvement.
• Champion Health, Safety, Environmental, and compliance standards.
• Manage regional demand positions and ensure resilient supply.

Skills

Operational leadership experience

Team coaching and development

Communication skills

Financial acumen

Supply chain knowledge

Education

Degree or equivalent operational experience

Job description

Closing Date

29 / 12 / 2025

Job Title: Regional Operations Manager – Water Resource & Production- Sussex

Location: Hardham / Patcham based- covering Sussex region, the role requires site visit therefore driving licenced is essential

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: Full-time

Salary: Competitive salary plus £400 per month car allowance

You will join our Water Supply Production function, leading regional operations across Sussex. This is a critical leadership role within UK water operations, accountable for delivering industry-leading performance against Water Outcome Delivery Incentives (ODIs) and ensuring resilient, safe, and high-quality water services for our customers.

You will lead a team of up to 5 Field Performance Managers with indirect leadership of 39 FTE, collectively responsible for the production of approximately 190Ml / d across the Sussex region. Your leadership will directly influence regional service resilience, operational efficiency, and regulatory performance as we deliver on the commitments of our Turnaround Plan. You can find out more information on our plans on this link

What you will be responsible for :

• Provide strategic and inspirational leadership to regional Water Supply Production teams and external delivery partners.
• Drive performance against Water ODIs and regulatory targets, ensuring resilient water supplies and excellent customer service.
• Lead business change across the region, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Champion Health, Safety, Environmental, and compliance standards across all operations.
• Manage regional demand positions and ensure resilient supply during high-risk or peak-demand periods.
• Build strong relationships with delivery partners, engineering teams, and asset planners to ensure long-term resilience.

Additional Requirements specific to the role

• Occasional travel across the Sussex region.
• Participation in regional leadership meetings and operational reviews.
• You will be required to be on standby duties details of which will be discussed during interview

What you’ll bring to the role :

Essential

• Proven operational leadership experience in water, utilities, engineering, or asset-intensive environments.
• Strong ability to inspire, coach, and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging senior stakeholders and regulators.
• Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and optimising operational expenditure.
• Understanding of supply chain processes and operational risk management.

Desirable

• Degree-qualified or equivalent operational experience.
• Experience in regulatory compliance and performance improvement.

Progression opportunities

Opportunities to progress into senior leadership roles within Operations or Asset Management functions.

About Southern Water

Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.

You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation.

At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you—even if you don’t tick every box. Your unique skills and experiences could be exactly what we need.

If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here : myworkdaysite.com-Introduce Yourself

Our Commitment to Diversity

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.