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. 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.
HR Business Partner
Location: Exeter (3 days per week on site)
Salary: £47,000 - £55,000 per annum plus excellent benefits
At South West Water, part of the Pennon Group, we're looking for an experienced HR Business Partner to support leaders across our operational and corporate teams. This is an opportunity to play a key role in driving business performance through effective people solutions, workforce planning, organisational change and leadership coaching.
Working closely with managers, trade unions and the wider people team, you will act as a trusted advisor, helping leaders navigate complex people challenges whilst creating a positive, engaged and high‑performing workforce.
This role combines strategic partnering with hands‑on operational delivery and would suit someone who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and enjoys building strong stakeholder relationships across a diverse business.
What you'll be doing
- Partnering with leaders to deliver people plans aligned to business objectives.
- Providing practical and commercially focused HR advice and guidance.
- Building effective relationships with recognised Trade Unions and employee representatives.
- Supporting organisational change, restructures and consultation activities.
- Coaching managers to strengthen leadership capability and confidence.
- Supporting workforce planning, talent and succession activities.
- Using people data and insight to drive decision-making and business outcomes.
- Championing employee engagement, wellbeing, inclusion and development initiatives.
- Identifying and implementing continuous improvement opportunities.
What we're looking for
- Proven experience as a HR Business Partner, People Business Partner or Senior HR Advisor.
- Experience working in a unionised environment with strong Trade Union engagement skills.
- Strong understanding of employment law and HR best practice.
- Experience supporting operational, frontline or shift-based workforces.
- Demonstrable experience managing organisational change and consultation processes.
- Excellent stakeholder management, coaching and influencing skills.
- CIPD Level 5 qualified or equivalent experience.
Desirable
- Experience within Utilities, Infrastructure, Engineering, Manufacturing, Logistics or similar operational environments.
- Experience within a regulated industry.
- Change Management or Organisational Development qualification.
Ready to make a difference? Join us as our HR Business Partner help create a workplace where people thrive.
At South West Water, we believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our HR Business Partner, you'll enjoy:
- Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
- Annual Bonus Scheme – Rewarding your 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 private healthcare and employee assistance programs
- Employee Discounts – On various products and services
- Generous Annual Leave – Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement
Please note that interviews will be held on Friday 18th September 2026.
Closing Date: 10th September 2026
We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.
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.
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HR Business Partner South West Water · Business, Corporate and Support Functions · Exeter (Peninsula House) employer: Pennon Group
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions employee health and wellbeing. With a commitment to sustainability and community impact, our Occupational Health and Wellbeing Lead will have the unique opportunity to shape initiatives that enhance workplace culture while enjoying generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, private healthcare, and continuous professional development. Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our employees and the environment.
