At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead regulatory strategy for major water resource projects and engage with key regulators.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and healthcare benefits.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical infrastructure while shaping regulatory frameworks.
- Qualifications: Experience in regulated utilities and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
South West Water is seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Regulatory Manager to play a pivotal leadership role within our Strategic Resource Options (SRO) Programme. Reporting to the SRO Programme Director, you will lead regulatory strategy, engagement and coordination across a portfolio of nationally significant water resource infrastructure projects. This high-impact role at the heart of one of the UK water sector’s most critical programmes supports delivery through Ofwat’s Major Infrastructure delivery models (DPC/SIPR). As key interface between the programme and regulators, you will ensure alignment with policy, governance and evolving regulatory frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead the overarching regulatory strategy for the SRO programme
- Provide expert advice on regulatory frameworks, compliance and policy developments
- Embed regulatory considerations into programme planning, investment cases and delivery strategies
- Act as senior regulatory advisor to programme leadership
- Support commercial and financial positioning, including risk, return and economic valuation
- Lead engagement with key regulators including Ofwat, Environment Agency, DWI and Natural England
- Build trusted, collaborative relationships across regulatory bodies
- Represent the programme in industry forums and regulatory discussions
- Coordinate responses to consultations, reviews and regulatory enquiries
- Lead development of regulatory submissions, business cases and assurance documentation
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting across programme milestones
- Coordinate cross-functional inputs into regulatory deliverables
- Support gateway reviews and investment approvals
- Monitor regulatory changes and assess impacts on programme delivery
- Embed regulatory requirements across engineering, commercial, environmental and programme teams
- Provide insight into governance processes, risks and decision‑making
- Track and manage regulatory commitments and obligations
- Identify and mitigate risks affecting programme delivery
- Provide leadership across regulatory activities within the SRO programme
- Build regulatory capability across multidisciplinary teams
- Promote a proactive, collaborative engagement culture
- Drive continuous improvement and best practice in regulatory management
Experience & Qualifications
- Proven experience within a regulated utility environment, preferably water
- Extensive experience in economic regulation or similar field
- People management experience or previous senior leadership role
- Experience supporting major infrastructure or capital programmes
- Strong track record of managing complex regulatory relationships
- Degree in Economics, Policy, Business Management or related discipline
- Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and infrastructure planning
- Professional qualification in economics, finance or related field
- Postgraduate qualification (desirable)
- Leadership or project management qualifications (desirable)
- Experience with data analysis and regulatory investigations (desirable)
- Membership of a relevant professional body (desirable)
Skills
- Strategic mindset with strong problem‑solving capability
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, including Board‑level engagement
- Ability to simplify complex regulatory frameworks and issues
- Strong stakeholder management and collaboration capability
- Comfortable working in fast‑paced, high‑accountability environments
Benefits
- Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
- Company car or car allowance – Options to support your role
- 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 benefits
Application Information
Closing Date: 29th June 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. 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.
Lead Regulatory Manager in Bristol employer: South West Water
South West Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic leadership and regulatory expertise are highly valued. With a strong commitment to employee growth, flexible working options, and a culture that promotes diversity and inclusion, you will thrive in a role that not only impacts the water sector but also supports your professional development. Join us in making a meaningful difference while enjoying competitive benefits and a collaborative atmosphere.
