At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy for a £4bn infrastructure programme and collaborate with key stakeholders.
- Company: Join South West Water, ensuring safe drinking water across stunning landscapes.
- Benefits: Up to £90,000 salary, company car, annual bonus, healthcare, and generous leave.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities while driving financial leadership in a major project.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with extensive experience in major project finance.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 90000 £ per year.
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.
Location: Exeter or Bristol HQ | Hybrid working | Full‑time.
Up to £90,000 per annum plus an excellent benefits package (experience dependent).
The Strategic Resources Options (SRO) programme is a £4bn+ infrastructure initiative. This senior finance business partner role is pivotal to driving financial leadership and ensuring long‑term value for customers and communities.
The Role
As Senior Finance Business Partner you will lead financial activities supporting programme delivery, acting as a key link between corporate finance, regulatory frameworks and commercial strategy.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver the financial strategy for the SRO programme.
- Build, maintain and refine programme financial models, including construction costs, funding structures and risk scenarios.
- Lead financial input into the DPC competitive procurement process, including bid evaluation and financial assessment.
- Collaborate with senior stakeholders including Ofwat, investors, advisers and delivery partners.
- Support affordability frameworks and value‑for‑money assessments.
- Ensure compliance with Ofwat financial requirements and regulatory capital frameworks.
- Support integration with price review processes and long‑term asset strategies.
- Establish and maintain strong financial governance, risk management and reporting processes.
- Conduct financial risk assessments and maintain risk and opportunity registers.
- Lead budgeting and forecasting processes aligned to programme objectives.
- Provide financial insights and analysis to support strategic decision‑making.
- Coordinate with internal and external audit teams on programme financial matters.
- Act as the key finance link between the programme and South West Water Finance and Treasury teams.
Essential Qualifications
- Fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA or ACA).
- Extensive experience in major project finance environments.
- Strong background in PPP, PFI, DPC or comparable regulated delivery models.
- Proven experience of senior‑level business partnering.
- Advanced financial modelling, budgeting and forecasting expertise.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience within water infrastructure or AMP programmes.
- Understanding of regulatory capital frameworks and asset valuation.
Key Skills and Attributes
- Strong commercial acumen.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience managing senior stakeholders including regulators, investors and executive teams.
- Strong analytical capability with the ability to translate complex data into clear insight.
- A proactive approach with a focus on continuous improvement and efficiency.
Benefits
- Competitive salary – based on experience and skills.
- Company car or car allowance – options to support your role.
- Annual bonus scheme – rewarding your performance.
- Pension scheme – helping you plan for your future.
- Healthcare benefits – access to private healthcare and employee assistance programmes.
- Professional development – support for career growth with training opportunities.
- Employee discounts – on various products and services.
- Generous annual leave – take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement.
Closing Date
3rd July 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. Successful candidates will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
SRO Senior Finance Business Partner in Bristol employer: South West Water
South West Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the picturesque locations of Exeter or Bristol. With a strong commitment to employee growth through professional development opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salaries, healthcare, and generous annual leave, we foster a culture of collaboration and innovation. Join us in making a meaningful impact on communities while enjoying the advantages of hybrid working and a supportive team atmosphere.
