At South West Water we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations - with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate.
We’re proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area.
And we have huge ambitions.
Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we’ve also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come.
So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater.
We are looking for an experienced stakeholder engagement manager to join our Natural Resources team to identify, establish and grow strong partnerships in the South West region. Based in our Head office in Exeter, you will receive an annual salary of between £54,000 - £63,000, plus a company car and excellent benefits.
About the role:
In this new and instrumental role in our Natural Resources team, as Stakeholder Engagement Manager, you will lead strategic planning and coordination of South West Water's new stakeholder engagement approach, particularly in relation to South West Water’s environmental agenda in the south west region.
What you'll be doing:
- Planning and coordinating South West Water’s new “Green First” stakeholder engagement programme, working with colleagues, community groups, partners and the supply chain to tackle water management challenges through natural processes and nature-based solutions
- Supporting and shaping key environmental commitments and ambitions including: Protecting and improving environmental and marine ecosystems, climate change, sustainability and biodiversity
- Promoting and facilitating an outcome-focused approach though robust monitoring and evaluation of both co-production activities and environmental projects/programmes.
- Promoting and progressing South West Water’s environmental strategy through collaboration with the supply chain, influencing at a regional / national level, hosting/facilitating local water management workshops
- Supporting delivery of key environmental and water resources-related projects (i.e., catchment management, increasing biodiversity, tree-planting commitment, water efficiency approaches, WINEP investigations, Water Fit, etc.)
- Working with the Director of Net Zero and Natural Resources to identify and develop initiatives to achieve our environmental ambitions
- Providing expert advice on matters of stakeholder engagement, catchment management, sustainability, environmental strategy and planning, and climate change.
What we are looking for:
- Degree in relevant discipline
- Proven experience in senior leadership / managerial position
- Demonstrable experience in sustainability and regulatory frameworks
- Experience of developing and delivering environmental strategy
- Previous track record of successfully leading and delivering environmental projects
- Knowledge of the South West environment and regional economy
- Existing network of stakeholder contacts in the South West / nationally
- Ability to develop strong external relationships with stakeholders
- Credible senior manager with a passionate interest in the environment of the South West
- Strategic thinker who is able to seek and analyse information and think flexibly to develop solutions
What's in it for you:
- 30 days’ holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- A company car or cash for car allowance
- Private Medical Insurance
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- Access to the Company Sharesave Scheme
- Wellbeing support programmes
- A range of Group Discounts
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing support and development for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition.
In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
Closing date: 1st May 2025
Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.
Our core values which are essential to our success are:
Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
What We Do
South West Water is part of Pennon Group plc. We provide reliable, efficient and high quality drinking water and waste water services throughout Cornwall and Devon and in small areas of Dorset and Somerset. We also look after the region's bathing waters and coastline.
South West Water came into being in 1989 with the privatisation of the water industry. We inherited a water system suffering from a century of neglect but, thanks to the tireless work of our 1,300 employees, have brought the region's drinking water, sewerage systems and bathing waters into line with the stringent UK and European Union standards.
This extensive programme of environmental improvement has resulted in some of the finest bathing waters in Europe, picturesque scenery and clean rivers with stunning wildlife.
We believe that by investing in the future of our region, we are not only improving the quality of life for today's residents and visitors but are also taking responsibility for future generations.
