Director of Programme and Management

Join Ofwat's RAPID & Environmental Planning directorate as a Director of Programme and Engagement

Office Location: Birmingham (B5 4UA) or London (E14 4HD)

About Us

We are Ofwat, the Water Services Regulation Authority, a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating the water sector in England and Wales. Our work has genuine significance - no other organisation does the work we do. It's unique and meaningful: keeping our water flowing; ensuring water bills don't cost a penny more than needed; holding water companies to account. Come and work at the source of everyday life.

The Role

Join us as the Director of Programme and Engagement in our RAPID and Environmental Planning Directorate and be at the forefront of shaping the future of water resources. The RAPID and Environmental Planning Directorate is comprised of 3 teams: RAPID, Environment and Water Resources. Following Ofwat's final determination for the Price Review 2024, we are embarking on an ambitious journey with a significant programme of 28 Strategic Resource Options (SROs).

You will lead teams in RAPID that also provide cross-cutting services across the RAPID and Environmental Planning Directorate. These services include enabling robust and innovative programme management to underpin our delivery and providing high quality stakeholder engagement to increase the impact of our work.

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to spearhead the programme function of the Directorate, driving efficiency and providing professional oversight of the water companies' development of these critical projects. You will be a key part of the directorate's leadership team, working in partnership with existing directors, and playing a key role in the delivery of this transformative pipeline of SROs and our wider portfolio of work.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to make a lasting impact on the sustainability and resilience of our water resources. If you are passionate about leading innovative programmes and inspiring teams to achieve excellence, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Together, we can create a better future for our communities and the environment. Join us at Ofwat, where your potential will be unleashed, and your contributions are valued. Together, we can achieve great things and create a positive legacy for future generations.

About You

Below are some of the key essential experience, skills & knowledge required for this post:

1. Strong policy development skills and relevant experience in regulatory/ infrastructure development.
2. Experience of managing a complex portfolio of work with a high degree of autonomy and deliver an ambitious agenda. This includes taking a strategic overview while possessing the appropriate tools and techniques that enable you to drive the successful delivery of our programme and projects.
3. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to balance conflicting viewpoints, negotiation and diplomacy, interrogate technical aspects of what we do and explain them in a way that resonates with your audience.
4. Excellent leadership and people management skills, including the ability to inspire, engage and empower people, so that every individual makes the best contribution they can.
5. A good understanding of the external environment in which we operate, as well as the ability to understand our strategy and our work and relate that to the interests of our key stakeholders

Closing date: 23.55 on 23 March 2025.

Why Join Us:

• Meaningful Impact: Contribute to our purpose to drive water companies to deliver more for customers and the environment.
• Innovative Work Environment: We embrace agile working and a culture of trust, flexibility, and collaboration.
• Development Opportunities: Gain valuable experience and develop your skills in a supportive and dynamic setting.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy the flexibility of working from home combined with meaningful collaboration in our London or Birmingham offices.

Other Benefits:

• Excellent employer pension contribution of over 28%
• 25 days' annual leave, increasing to 30 with each year of service, plus bank holidays and an extra 2.5 days of privilege leave.
• Access to exclusive discounts on a variety of goods and services, including retail outlets, theatre tickets, holidays, insurance, and a gym membership.
• Fees paid for membership of relevant professional bodies.
• Up to 3 volunteering days per year.
• Recognition vouchers scheme rewarding your hard work.
• Generous shared parental leave and pay supporting your family life.