Assistant Programme Manager

Assistant Programme Manager

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Pennon Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Coordinate innovative projects tackling environmental challenges and drive collaboration across teams.
  • Company: Join South West Water, part of Pennon Group, committed to sustainability and innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, flexible working, healthcare benefits, and employee discounts.
  • Other info: Engage with community initiatives and gain exposure to strategic programmes.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while shaping your career in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Degree-qualified or equivalent experience with strong organisational and analytical skills.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose. 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. As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and support 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.

As Assistant Programme Manager you’ll play a key role in coordinating and delivering cutting‑edge research and innovation projects. Working alongside the Programme Manager and CREWW Director, you’ll help ensure projects are well‑planned, well‑governed and successfully delivered. You’ll also contribute to the wider Pennon innovation agenda, gaining exposure to the Pennon Innovation & Commercialisation Committee (PICC) and helping shape future opportunities across the Group.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Drive collaboration: Build strong relationships across South West Water, the University of Exeter and external stakeholders
  • Track delivery: Monitor project timelines, risks and progress, ensuring milestones are achieved
  • Support decision‑making: Analyse data, evaluate performance and provide insightful updates to stakeholders
  • Enable innovation: Help develop new projects, define scope and support delivery pathways
  • Make an impact locally: Engage with community groups, charitable initiatives and regional stakeholders
  • Contribute broadly: Support wider Pennon Group programmes, including social mobility initiatives

What We’re Looking For

  • Degree‑qualified or equivalent experience
  • Experience in a fast‑paced delivery or coordination role
  • Strong organisational and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make recommendations
  • Some knowledge or interest in project management or innovation (desirable)
  • Excellent communication skills, able to engage confidently with senior stakeholders
  • A proactive, detail‑oriented approach with strong time‑management skills

Why Join Us?

  • Work on sector‑leading research and innovation
  • Be part of a unique industry‑academic partnership
  • Gain exposure to strategic programmes and senior leaders
  • Help deliver solutions that benefit customers, communities and the environment
  • Build a career at the forefront of sustainability and resilience

Benefits

  • Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
  • 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 assistance programmes
  • Employee Discounts – On various products and services
  • Annual Leave – Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement

Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.

Assistant Programme Manager employer: Pennon Group

At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and sustainability. Located in the picturesque Exeter HQ, our team enjoys competitive salaries, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth through exposure to cutting-edge research and strategic programmes. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the environment while building a rewarding career in the water sector.

Pennon Group

Contact Details:

Pennon Group Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Programme Manager

Project Management
Analytical Skills
Data Analysis
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Time Management
Stakeholder Engagement