Senior Water Network Operations Lead

Southern Water; Brede; On-site; GBP 58,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Water is seeking an Operations Manager to lead the Hastings area's water networks and production activities. You will drive safe, efficient, and compliant operation across teams, improving leakage, asset reliability and regulatory performance.

You will lead change, foster a high‑performing culture, and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver sustainable improvements for customers and the region.

Qualifications

• Experience in utilities or operations is preferred.
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of financial management.
• Understands how supply chain works.
• Good commercial sense (price and value).
• Understand how their area links into the SW business.
• Ability to interpret and act on data for best value.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational decision-making across people, resources, contractors and assets, balancing customer, regulatory, safety and financial priorities.
• Develop and implement performance monitoring to improve reliability, leakage and productivity.
• Identify and deliver continuous improvement initiatives using data and lean methods.
• Build relationships with stakeholders including regulators and service partners.
• Develop compliance plans for production sites to improve reliability and water quality.
• Provide visible leadership in Health, Safety and Wellbeing and ensure safety culture.
• Coach and develop front line teams to deliver exceptional customer and operational outcomes.

Skills

Operations management

Water industry experience

Health and safety

Regulatory compliance

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

Management degree

Job description

Southern Water is seeking an Operations Manager to lead the Hastings area's water networks and production activities. You will drive safe, efficient, and compliant operation across teams, improving leakage, asset reliability and regulatory performance.

You will lead change, foster a high‑performing culture, and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver sustainable improvements for customers and the region.