At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful customer research and analyse data to shape water policy.
- Company: Ofwat, the regulator for the water sector in England and Wales.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on improving customer experiences in the water sector.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in water policy while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in research methodologies.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Ofwat regulates the water sector in England and Wales.
We are looking for a Customer Research Specialist to join our Outcomes Team, at Senior Associate level. We need someone that can help understand the impacts on water customers of innovative approaches by water companies. The role will suit someone who is knowledgeable about research methods, has an eye for detail, feels confident critiquing research and who enjoys working at a fast pace. Strong research and analytical skills are essential, including the ability to evaluate the quality of customer engagement, assess the validity of results, and consider their broader implications and application for policy development. We are embracing change and will need you to be ready to support others. You will need to be keen to develop new skills in policy development, taking advantage of opportunities to develop, review, and enhance our current policies, then assist with the implementation of new ones.
Key Deliverables
- Help water companies produce robust unbiased evidence on the impacts that different technologies of replacing water mains can have on water customers.
- Assess water company research methodologies and work collaboratively with companies to ensure approach is consistent with Ofwat's standards for high quality research and engagement.
- Provide advice on the appropriate scale of trials that will build statistically valid results across a range of customer groups especially those that are vulnerable.
- Analyse the results, share key findings with the Outcomes Team, and offer policy design recommendations while highlighting any limitations.
- Take the lead in interpreting customer research evidence from a range of sources, triangulating evidence and making recommendations on its reliability and use in informing Price Review policy.
- Manage the delivery of projects, including engaging with colleagues to understand requirements and scope as well as making recommendations on approaches, developing workplans, writing invitations to tender and managing procurement.
- Promote research findings and reports, making connections to the work of others.
- Work on wider projects with Ofwat’s Principal, Customer Insights, who is part of the customer policy team.
- Work on wider projects in the outcomes team applying transferable skills working with other team members.
Location: London, Birmingham
Contract type: Full time, Permanent
Profession: Analysis, Consumer, Research
Working pattern: Flexible working, Hybrid
Closing Date: 01/06/2026
Senior Associate—Customer Research & Policy Insights (Hybrid) in Birmingham employer: UK Regulators' Network
Ofwat is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the dynamic field of customer research and policy insights. With a commitment to employee development, we offer numerous opportunities for growth and skill enhancement, all while promoting a flexible hybrid working environment in vibrant locations like London and Birmingham. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the water sector and contribute to shaping policies that benefit customers across England and Wales.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Associate—Customer Research & Policy Insights (Hybrid) in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Ofwat or in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Ofwat's recent projects and policies. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also passionate about their mission and how we can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help us articulate our thoughts clearly and confidently. Let’s focus on how our skills align with the job requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating our enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows we’re proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Associate—Customer Research & Policy Insights (Hybrid) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with research methods and customer engagement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your analytical prowess!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail:In this role, an eye for detail is crucial. When you’re writing your application, be meticulous! Double-check for any typos or errors, and ensure that your examples clearly demonstrate your ability to critique research effectively.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Policy Development:We’re looking for someone who’s eager to dive into policy development. Use your application to express your enthusiasm for enhancing policies and how you’ve previously contributed to similar projects. Let us know why this excites you!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do—just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Regulators' Network
✨Know Your Research Methods
Make sure you brush up on various research methodologies before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these methods in past roles, especially in customer research. This will show that you understand the technical side of the job and can contribute effectively.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your analytical skills, particularly in evaluating research quality and interpreting data. Think about specific instances where your analysis led to actionable insights or policy recommendations. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and make informed decisions.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Collaboration
Since the role involves working with water companies and other teams, be prepared to talk about your experience in collaborative projects. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve common goals, and how you can bring that teamwork spirit to Ofwat.
✨Embrace Change and Adaptability
Ofwat is looking for someone who can support change and develop new skills. Be ready to discuss times when you've had to adapt to new situations or learn new skills quickly. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the dynamic environment at Ofwat.
