Project Manager

Job Title: Project Manager

Location: Durrington, Worthing (Flexible/Hybrid)

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: 37

Salary: From £44,500 based on skills and experience

About the role:

To provide project management assistance and coordination of Opex efficiency targets in AMP8 as well as supporting on the delivery of Proactive Maintenance in above ground Operations.

In addition to the described deliverables it is expected that the successful candidate will promote good practice in terms of project planning and control, in collaboration with operational stakeholders and other transformation teams.

What you will be responsible for:

The role holder is responsible for identifying efficiency opportunities in the existing operational budgets, and using stakeholder engagements to develop efficiency solutions which will support Water Operations from achieving AMP8 budget.

Additionally, to support on the delivery of prescribed Proactive Maintenance workstreams which support Maintenance Teams becoming more planned in their maintenance approach, in alignment with the Asset Maintenance Strategy.

In partnership with finance teams, use analytical skills to identify operational efficiency opportunities

Collate opportunities and liaise with budget holders and key stakeholders in Operations, Maintenance and Operational Control to understand delivery plans for transformation changes which will deliver efficiencies

Deliver agreed efficiency workstreams and report progress in the executive reporting tool [Wave]

Managing any assigned Proactive Maintenance workstreams which enable a more proactive maintenance approach in Water Supply

Identify and early escalation of identified risks, working with SPM and stakeholders on resolution management and risk mitigation

Establish and track OKRs/KPIs identified as part of the performance improvement as well as financial benefits

What you’ll bring to the role / technical skills:

Understanding of industry wide best practice relating to project management

Experience dealing with senior stakeholders, commercial and financial partners as well as external contractors/suppliers

An ability to remain positive, with a ‘can do’ attitude and ability to find pragmatic solutions to challenges

Responsible for managing risk and reporting against risk within the action plans produced, by identifying risks and potential impacts, and escalating as appropriate.

High level of planning and scheduling skills, ensuring the complex activities of interrelated project teams are controlled, coordinated and linked into the overarching programme of works.

Good data handling and analytical skills.

The ability to work to tight time pressures and to present clearly articulated reports and presentations is a key component of this role.

Effective communications skills at all levels, ability to work effectively as part of a team. Strong influencing and persuasion skills required, e.g. to promote change, ensure governance.

Qualifications:

Essential

APM PMQ or Prince2

Desirable

Understanding of the water industry or other equivalent utilities

Understanding of the Asset Maintenance and Operational working dynamics

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

“Your potential matters more than a perfect checklist. If this role excites you and you believe you can make an impact, we want to hear from you! Skills can be learned—passion, drive, and fresh perspectives are what truly set candidates apart. Don’t hesitate—take the leap and apply!”

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: Introduce Yourself (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.

Additional information:

In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years.

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all pre‑employment checks, including security vetting.

Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment.

Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.