Senior Advisor - Chemicals and Water - 31861

Senior Advisor – Chemicals and Water – 31861

Join the Chemicals Surveillance and Emerging Risks Team as a Senior Advisor. Focus on chemicals in water and influence national strategy and regulatory delivery to reduce chemical risks in the water environment through smart, evidence-based policy.

The role includes shaping the chemicals component of the Price Review programme, contributing to the Chemicals Investigation Programme, and ensuring chemical risks are addressed through permit reviews and regulatory innovation.

• Lead development of our chemical’s strategy for 2030–2035 through the Price Review programme.
• Ensure effective delivery of AMP8 and AMP9.
• Review high risk permitted activities.
• Influence national plans through collaboration with Defra, the water industry, and other stakeholders.
• Provide technical leadership across teams, mentoring colleagues, and promoting innovation.
• Translate evidence into action to deliver environmental outcomes.
• Opportunity to take online management responsibilities to support growth and development of others in the team.

Experience/skills Required

We are looking for a strategic, self-motivated individual with knowledge of the water industry, water quality planning and permitting processes including Price Review cycles and River Basin Management Planning. You’ll be confident working across policy, regulation, and stakeholder engagement to influence national programmes and deliver environmental outcomes.

• Degree or equivalent experience in environmental science/policy/related fields
• Understanding of water industry planning, regulation and/or permitting
• Strong stakeholder engagement/relationship building skills, including with government and industry
• Strategic thinking and data analysis skills in environmental planning or water quality
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical and scientific information into clear, actionable policy
• Leadership in projects, programmes, or people, with a collaborative and inclusive approach
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities

Desirable

• Awareness of environmental risks posed by chemicals and regulations
• Membership of a relevant professional body

We’re committed to building an inclusive workforce and welcome flexible working patterns for all vacancies. Some travel and overnight stays will be required. The Environment Agency is not part of HM Civil Service. Please read the Candidate / Additional Information Pack for details. Interviews are conducted via MS Teams.

Contact: melanie.farmer@environment-agency.gov.uk