About usLingley Mere, Warrington (Hybrid)Permanent | Full TimeCompetitive Salary | Annual Bonus + 5000 Car AllowanceThe roleAt United Utilities, we don’t just deliver water — we deliver a better future for the North West. Our mission is to provide high-quality, sustainable water services that support a greener, healthier and more prosperous region.Ranked #4 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers, we are proud of our commitment to diversity, innovation and creating a workplace where people can truly thrive.As we significantly increase our investment in innovation over the next five years, there has never been a more exciting time to join us.The OpportunityWe’re looking for a Senior Innovation Project Manager to lead from the front — driving cutting-edge engineering innovation across our Commercial, Engineering and Capital Delivery (CEC) functions.This isn’t just project delivery. You’ll be shaping how innovation is identified, tested, scaled and embedded across a FTSE 100 organisation — directly contributing to carbon reduction, efficiency and future sustainability outcomes.We are expanding our award-winning Innovation and Outperformance team at United Utilities, bringing together innovation, decarbonisation, and standardisation to drive step-change improvements in cost and carbon performance mainly focused on our c.7bn capital programme.Our team explores innovations that deliver value and drives the deployment of these solutions at scale to unlock outperformance against our ambitious targets.What You’ll Be DoingLead and deliver a diverse portfolio of complex, multi-disciplinary innovation projectsTake ideas from concept through to adoption, ensuring measurable benefits and real-world impactDrive efficiency, sustainability and carbon reduction outcomes across the businessInspire and mentor project managers, championing agile thinking and innovative approachesBuild strong relationships with senior stakeholders, shaping decisions and influencing outcomesCollaborate with external partners and funding bodies including Ofwat, Innovate UK and Horizon EuropeManage delivery across risk, governance, resources and commercial performancePromote innovation across the business, increasing visibility and adoption of new ideasEnsure outstanding Health & Safety performance, operating within CDM and DSEAR frameworksWhat Makes This Role Different?Be at the forefront of a rapidly expanding international innovation programmeWork on cutting-edge technologies and engineering solutions from around the WorldInfluence strategic direction within a FTSE 100 organisationPlay a key role in delivering sustainability and carbon reduction targetsWork across internal teams, supply chains and leading external innovation partnersWhat We’re Looking ForWe’re seeking a visionary project leader who thrives in complexity, brings energy to innovation and knows how to turn ideas into reality.Essential:Degree qualified (or equivalent experience) in a technical or engineering disciplineChartered member of an industry recognised organisationProject management qualification (APM or equivalent)Proven experience delivering complex project portfoliosStrong stakeholder management with experience influencing senior leadersExperience supporting bids or securing funding for projectsFull UK/EU driving licenceWhat You’ll Get in ReturnWe recognise the value you bring — and reward it.26 days annual leave (rising to 30) + bank holidaysCompetitive pension scheme (up to 14% employer contribution)Performance-related bonus of up to 20%5,000 car allowanceCompany-funded healthcareFlexible, hybrid workingYou’ll also benefit from exceptional development opportunities, including:#APM Project Management qualificationsChartership support (CEng / IEng)Leadership coaching and mentoringProfessional memberships and accreditationsYour ImpactYour work will directly support our ambition to build a more sustainable future, delivering innovation at scale and creating tangible benefits for customers, communities and the environment.This is your chance to lead transformational change — not just projects.Ready to Lead Innovation?If you’re passionate about delivering impactful projects, shaping the future of engineering and driving meaningful change — we want to hear from you.Apply now and be part of something bigger.
Senior Innovation Project Manager in Milton Keynes employer: United Utilities
United Utilities is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where commercial professionals can thrive while contributing to vital infrastructure projects that benefit communities across the North West. With competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and robust career development opportunities, we empower our employees to grow and make a meaningful impact in their roles. Join us to be part of a purpose-driven organisation that values innovation and collaboration.
