At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational teams and ensure project safety and sustainability.
- Company: Anglian Water, a leader in water management with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, health care, and generous leave.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with strong commitment to employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in water management while leading diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in operational management.
The predicted salary is between 104000 - 104000 € per year.
Location: Hybrid with Thorpe Wood House as base location
Salary: Circa £104k subject to experience
Contract Type: Permanent Full Time (Flexibility for Part Time)
At Anglian Water our values are that together, we will: Build trust, do the right thing, and we are always exploring.
About the Role
We are looking for a Head of Operational Interface to provide strategic leadership across the capital delivery lifecycle, ensuring operational needs are fully represented from concept through to delivery and aftercare. In this role, you will lead Operational Liaison and Assurance teams, acting as the critical link between Operations, Engineering, Asset Management and delivery partners. You will ensure solutions are safe, operable, viable and environmentally sustainable, with a strong focus on long-term performance and customer outcomes. This is a high-impact leadership role within the Anglian Water Engineering team, where you will influence decision-making, manage complex stakeholder relationships, and ensure operational risk is designed out wherever possible.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Team Management
- Reporting to the Anglian Water Engineering Director, lead and develop a team of operational and assurance leads, who are aligned to capital delivery portfolios across programmes and regions
- Ensure appropriate allocation of expertise across projects
- Foster collaboration, accountability and continuous development within the team
- Lead Operational Representation (Capital Delivery Lifecycle)
- Represent operational priorities throughout design, construction, commissioning and aftercare
- Provide expert input at key project milestones and assurance gateways (e.g. Technical Assurance Group)
- Partner with project teams and operational leaders to deliver “best for business” outcomes
- Ensure operational readiness and seamless handover of engineering projects.
- Champion Safety in Design and Operation
- Embed a strong safety culture across all capital projects
- Ensure operational safety requirements are considered at every stage
- Support design solutions that minimise long-term operational risk
- Promote safe interaction between construction activities and live operations
- Stakeholder Engagement and Influence
- Build strong, trusted relationships across Operations, Engineering and Delivery
- Manage complex or conflicting priorities to reach effective outcomes
- Act as a visible leader across sites, maintaining close connection to operational teams
- Continuous Improvement
- Capture and embed learning from projects and operational experience
- Support the evolution of standards, processes and asset performance
- Drive innovation and benchmarking across internal and external networks
About You
We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences. You may be a great fit if you bring:
- Degree in Engineering or equivalent practical experience
- Strong experience in, or awareness of, operational management within water or water recycling
- Knowledge of hazardous process environments (e.g. DSEAR, chemical handling, process safety)
- Experience working within capital delivery or large infrastructure programmes
- Excellent stakeholder management, influencing and conflict resolution skills
- Technical understanding of engineering disciplines (process, mechanical, electrical or civil)
You will also be:
- A visible and values-led leader
- Comfortable working across complex, fast-paced environments
- Solutions-focused, with strong commercial and operational awareness
- Passionate about safety, sustainability and continuous improvement
As a valued employee, you’ll be entitled to:
- Personal private health care
- 25 days annual leave – rising with length of service + bank holidays.
- Flexible working
- Business use of car allowance
- Yearly bonus scheme based on company performance.
- Flexible benefits to support your wellbeing and lifestyle.
- Competitive pension scheme - Double Matched Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme up to 7%
- Generous maternity and paternity package
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know—we are here to support you.
Closing Date: 3rd June 2026
Head of Operational Interface employer: Anglian Water Group Ltd.
At Anglian Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement. As the Head of Operational Interface, you will lead a dedicated team in a hybrid working environment at Thorpe Wood House, benefiting from flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare and generous leave. We are committed to fostering employee growth and inclusivity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operational Interface
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at Anglian Water or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role but also align with our mission of building trust and exploring innovative solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your leadership, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities. We love hearing about real-life scenarios!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Anglian Water team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operational Interface
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the Head of Operational Interface role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this is a leadership position, emphasise your experience in managing teams and driving operational success. Share specific examples of how you've influenced decision-making and built strong relationships in previous roles.
Highlight Safety and Sustainability:Given our focus on safety and environmental sustainability, be sure to mention any relevant experience you have in these areas. Discuss how you've embedded safety culture in past projects or initiatives.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us, making it easier for us to review your credentials.
How to prepare for a job interview at Anglian Water Group Ltd.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge, especially around operational management in water or water recycling. Familiarise yourself with the capital delivery lifecycle and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed complex projects in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Operational Interface, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams, fostered collaboration, and driven continuous improvement in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing stakeholder relationships and resolving conflicts.
✨Emphasise Safety and Sustainability
Given the focus on safety and environmental sustainability in this role, be prepared to discuss how you've embedded safety culture in past projects. Share specific instances where you've designed solutions that minimise operational risk and promote safe practices.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don't just wait for questions; engage with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current projects, challenges they face, and how they envision the role contributing to their goals. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the company aligns with your values.
