Area Operations Manager

We are looking for an Area Operations Manager to join Thames Water on a full-time, permanent basis. In this exciting and high-profile position, you will have the opportunity to play a key role in creating and delivering ‘life’s essential service’ of water supply for our millions of customers and the communities we serve, both today and in the future. As an Area Operations Manager, you will be accountable for the end-to-end performance of your area across Water Networks, including Repair and Maintenance. What will you be doing as an Area Operations Manager Your role is vital in ensuring that all operational activity is carried out by Thames Water and 3rd party contractors in a safe, timely, and efficient manner with a zero-compromise approach to health, safety, and public health. You will be responsible for the operational and financial performance, managing a budget of up to £5m and serving a customer base of around 1 million. It will be your responsibility to ensure that outputs support Thames Water’s Outcome Delivery Incentives set by the regulator. Your leadership should demonstrate behaviors fully aligned with Thames Water\’s vision and values. You must proactively monitor and manage operational and financial risks across your area, ensuring adherence to health and safety and Streetworks legislations, with zero costs incurred due to failed operational processes or policies. The services you provide will help reduce leakage, ensure a reliable supply, respond effectively to customer needs, and improve environmental conditions. You will build relationships with our people, focusing on improving engagement, providing development opportunities, and fostering a culture of collaboration and diversity. You will also engage with communities to nurture local talent. You will collaborate with stakeholders at various levels within the business and with contractors to ensure your area thrives today and is prepared for future risks and opportunities across safety, public health, customer service, people, finance, and asset performance. Your decisions will enable future planning, investment, and risk mitigation, working closely with asset management teams for seamless asset risk management and investment planning. Your team will consist of up to 30-40 people, with 7-10 direct reports across locations in London and Thames Valley. What should you bring to the role? Excellent operations site leadership experience in a performance-driven, changing environment. Strategic thinking and commercial acumen to meet operational targets. Strong communication skills, resilience, and tenacity. Experience leading and developing large geographical teams. Experience managing contractor relationships. An uncompromising approach to Health, Safety, and Wellbeing. Customer service orientation. Experience in operational management and event response leadership. What’s in it for you? Salary up to £65,000 per annum, depending on skills and experience. 26 days holiday, increasing to 30 with service, plus bank holidays. Car Allowance. Annual Bonus. Generous Pension Scheme through AON. Private Medical Healthcare. Enhanced Paternity and Maternity Leave benefits. Additional health and wellbeing benefits, including physiotherapy, counselling, and more. Find out more about our benefits and perks. Who are we? We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, serving over 16 million customers daily. We aim to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive. We seek passionate, skilled individuals committed to making a difference. Learn more about our purpose and values Working at Thames Water Thames Water offers a rewarding, diverse workplace where every day you can make a difference. We provide career growth, flexible working, and excellent benefits. Whether in call centres or science labs, we value your passion and desire to improve. If you seek a sustainable career where you can impact millions and protect water resources, join us. We support your development every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, region, and planet. We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive employer. We welcome applications from everyone and support applicants throughout the process. We aim to remove barriers to success—if you need assistance, we’re here to help. During crises, we rally to support our customers. Join our team as an ambassador, with full training, to support frontline efforts. It’s a rewarding opportunity to learn more about our business and colleagues. Disclaimer: Due to high application volume, we may close the advert early. Apply soon to avoid missing out. #J-18808-Ljbffr