Water Demand Strategy Lead

South Staffs Water; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water utility company seeks a Water Demand Strategy Lead to develop and execute a five-year strategy aimed at reducing water consumption across the household and non-household sectors. This role requires a track record in project delivery, strong project management skills, and stakeholder engagement. The position offers a competitive salary, opportunities for career development, and a chance to make a significant environmental impact.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Company pension with employer contributions

Free confidential advice helpline

Eyecare vouchers

Employee Assistance Programme

24/7 remote GP access

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience in water demand reduction or related roles.
• Strong project management skills, including budget oversight.
• Ability to work independently and drive strategic initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a strategic plan to reduce water consumption.
• Align strategy with Water Resource Management Plans.
• Build strong relationships with retailers and stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Water efficiency programs

Data analysis

Job description

Job Title : Water Demand Strategy Lead

Salary : To £48,000 depending on experience

Location : Walsall / Cambridge

Travel : Required across both regions

Closing date : 1 December 2025

South Staffs Water is seeking a visionary Water Demand Strategy Lead to shape and deliver our long-term plan to reduce water consumption across both household and non-household sectors. With 2025 marking the driest spring on record and droughts declared in multiple regions, this role is more critical than ever in helping us meet our environmental and regulatory commitments.

This is a unique opportunity to lead strategic planning and stakeholder engagement, building on our award-winning campaigns and driving forward our ambition for sustainable water use.

The Role :

As Water Demand Strategy Lead, you'll be responsible for developing and executing our five-year strategy to reduce water demand. You'll work across teams and regions, aligning with our Universal Metering programme, leveraging smart meter data, and collaborating with retailers, customers, and industry partners to deliver meaningful change.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a strategic plan to reduce household and non-household water consumption through 2030
• Align strategy with Water Resource Management Plans and our Business Plan commitments
• Lead benefit measurement and reporting for internal stakeholders and regulators (e.g., Environment Agency, Ofwat)
• Collaborate with the Universal Metering team to maximise programme benefits and ensure strategic alignment
• Analyse smart meter data to inform water efficiency initiatives and demand forecasting
• Continuously review and adapt programmes to ensure value and effectiveness
• Build strong relationships with retailers, customers, and regional stakeholders to support delivery
• Identify and integrate best practices and innovations from across the industry
• Manage external consultants and suppliers as needed
• Represent South Staffs Water at industry forums and workshops
• Uphold Health & Safety standards and company values : Professional, Trusted, Impactful, Community Focused

What You'll Need :

• 5+ years' experience in water demand reduction or related roles
• Proven track record in end-to-end project development and delivery
• Strong project management skills, including budget oversight
• Understanding of WRMPs and regulatory commitments (preferred)
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
• Ability to work independently and drive strategic initiatives
• Full UK driving licence (due to travel across regions)
• Experience in water efficiency programmes (preferred)
• Familiarity with smart metering and data-driven strategy development

What You’ll Get in Return :

• A competitive salary plus benefits.
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
• Company pension with employer contributions.
• 24-hour helpline providing free and confidential advice to you and your family on financial, legal, marital, and health matters.
• Eyecare vouchers - via Specsavers.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• 24 / 7 remote GP access.

Why Join Us?

• Lead a high-impact strategy in a critical environmental domain
• Collaborate with passionate teams and industry leaders
• Drive innovation in water sustainability and customer engagement
• Be part of a company that values integrity, community, and continuous improvement