Water Demand Strategy Lead

SOUTH STAFFS WATER PLC; Hartford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water company in the UK is seeking a Water Demand Strategy Lead to develop and execute a strategic plan aimed at reducing water consumption. This role requires over 5 years of experience in water demand reduction and strong project management skills. The successful candidate will engage with stakeholders and utilize smart meter data to drive initiatives. Benefits include a competitive salary, 25 days of holiday, and a comprehensive employee support program.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Company pension

24-hour helpline for advice

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.
• Proven track record in end-to-end project development and delivery.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a strategic plan to reduce household and non-household water consumption through 2030.
• Align strategy with Water Resource Management Plans.
• Lead benefit measurement and reporting for internal stakeholders and regulators.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Water efficiency programs

Health & Safety standards

Job description

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.

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

Qualifications

• Uphold Health & Safety standards and company values: Professional, Trusted, Impactful, Community Focused
• 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

Benefits

• 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