South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes.
We’re proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
Whether you’re starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.
Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.
Lead Regulatory Manager – (SRO Programme)
Exeter or Bristol HQ | Deliver a nationally significant water infrastructure project
About the Role
South West Water is seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Regulatory Manager to play a pivotal leadership role within our Strategic Resource Options (SRO) Programme. Reporting to the SRO Programme Director, you will lead regulatory strategy, engagement and coordination across a portfolio of nationally significant water resource infrastructure projects.
This is a high-impact role at the heart of one of the UK water sector’s most critical programmes, supporting delivery through Ofwat’s Major Infrastructure delivery models (DPC/SIPR). You will act as the key interface between the programme and regulators, ensuring alignment with policy, governance and evolving regulatory frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory Strategy & Leadership
Develop and lead the overarching regulatory strategy for the SRO programme
Provide expert advice on regulatory frameworks, compliance and policy developments
Embed regulatory considerations into programme planning, investment cases and delivery strategies
Act as senior regulatory advisor to programme leadership
Support commercial and financial positioning, including risk, return and economic valuation
Regulatory Engagement & Stakeholder Management
Lead engagement with key regulators including Ofwat, Environment Agency, DWI and Natural England
Build trusted, collaborative relationships across regulatory bodies
Represent the programme in industry forums and regulatory discussions
Coordinate responses to consultations, reviews and regulatory enquiries
Regulatory Submissions & Assurance
Lead development of regulatory submissions, business cases and assurance documentation
Ensure accurate and timely reporting across programme milestones
Coordinate cross-functional inputs into regulatory deliverables
Support gateway reviews and investment approvals
Monitor regulatory changes and assess impacts on programme delivery
Programme Integration & Governance
Embed regulatory requirements across engineering, commercial, environmental and programme teams
Provide insight into governance processes, risks and decision-making
Track and manage regulatory commitments and obligations
Identify and mitigate risks affecting programme delivery
Leadership & Capability
Provide leadership across regulatory activities within the SRO programme
Build regulatory capability across multi-disciplinary teams
Promote a proactive, collaborative engagement culture
Drive continuous improvement and best practice in regulatory management
About You
Experience
Proven experience within a regulated utility environment, preferably water
Extensive experience in economic regulation or similar field
People management experience/ previous experience in a senior leadership role
Experience supporting major infrastructure or capital programmes
Strong track record of managing complex regulatory relationships
Skills
Strategic mindset with strong problem-solving capability
Excellent communication and influencing skills, including Board-level engagement
Ability to simplify complex regulatory frameworks and issues
Strong stakeholder management and collaboration capability
Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-accountability environments
Qualifications
Essential:
Degree in Economics, Policy, Business Management or related discipline
Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and infrastructure planning
Professional qualification in economics, finance or related field
Desirable:
Postgraduate qualification
Leadership or project management qualifications
Experience with data analysis and regulatory investigations
Membership of a relevant professional body
Why Join South West Water?
Be part of a nationally significant programme shaping the future of water resources
Influence policy, regulation and infrastructure delivery at senior level
Work within a collaborative, purpose-driven environment
Make a real impact on resilience, sustainability and customer outcomes
Join us and help deliver a reliable, high-quality service for our customers across the South West.
We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our Lead Regulatory Manager you'll enjoy:
Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
Company car or car allowance – Options to support your role
Annual Bonus Scheme – Recognising company performance
Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for your future
Flexible Working Options – We value work-life balance and offer flexible hours and hybrid working where possible
Healthcare Benefits – Access to employee assi
Closing Date: 29th June 2026
We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
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
Salary description
£65000.00 - £80000.00 per year