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.
Complaints Handler
(Internally known as a Complaints Customer Manager)
Location: Exeter with hybrid working available following successful completion of training
Contract: Fixed Term Contract (2 Years)
Salary: £29,439 + Benefits
Join Our Customer Resolution Team
We're looking for a customer-focused Complaints Handler to join our team on a two-year fixed-term contract. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, building relationships, and delivering positive outcomes for customers.
As a Complaints Handler, you'll investigate and manage customer complaints from initial contact through to resolution, ensuring every customer receives a fair, professional, and timely response. You'll play a key role in helping us improve the experience we provide to our customers by identifying opportunities for service improvement and championing customer-focused solutions.
Key Responsibilities
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Investigate and resolve customer complaints across a range of service areas.
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Manage complaint cases from receipt through to final resolution.
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Produce clear, accurate, and empathetic written responses within agreed timescales.
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Liaise with colleagues and stakeholders across the business to gather information and achieve the best outcome for customers.
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Identify complaint trends and provide feedback to support service improvements.
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Ensure complaints are recorded and managed in line with regulatory requirements and company procedures.
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Support improvements in customer satisfaction and customer experience performance measures.
What We're Looking For
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Experience in complaints handling, customer service, or a customer-facing environment.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
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Strong investigation and problem-solving abilities.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and work to deadlines.
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A customer-first approach with a commitment to delivering excellent service.
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GCSE Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths (or equivalent).
Desirable:
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Experience within the utilities sector or a regulated customer service environment.
Why Join Us?
This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference to our customers while gaining valuable experience in a fast-paced, supportive, and continuously evolving environment.
If you're passionate about helping customers, resolving complex issues, and influencing positive change, we'd love to hear from you.
Ready to make a difference? Join us as our Complaints Handler and help deliver exceptional experiences for our customers every day.
Our Benefits
We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our Complaints Handler, you'll enjoy:
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Competitive Salary – £29,439 per annum
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Annual Bonus Scheme – Recognising company performance
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Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for your future
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Hybrid Working – Office-based during training, with home working opportunities available thereafter
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Employee Assistance Programme – Supporting your wellbeing
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Employee Discounts – Access to discounts on a range of products and services
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Annual Leave Allowance – Giving you time to rest and recharge
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Career Development Opportunities – Supporting your ongoing growth and development
Closing Date: 15th October 2026
We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
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.
Complaints Handler in Exeter employer: South West Water Careers
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a collaborative work culture that fosters learning and development in the stunning landscapes of the South West. As an Asset Information Technician, you'll enjoy generous benefits including a competitive pension, health support programmes, and opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to vital infrastructure services that make a real difference in our communities. Join us to be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and encourages you to bring your authentic self to work every day.
