Demand Strategy Manager

Supporting the lives of people and places they love for generations to come is our purpose and providing water services to our communities in the most efficient and sustainable way possible is what we do. Our commitment is to always deliver available and sufficient resources, this is what drives the Drought and Resilience Team and in doing so we want to ensure that we enhance our reputation with our customers, regulators and stakeholders. So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed.

We currently have an opportunity for a Demand Strategy Manager to join our Water Resources team and lead the development and implementation of the Demand Strategy driving demand reductions aligned with strategic commitments, covering South West Water, Bristol Water, Bournemouth Water and Isles of Scilly regions. You will receive a competitive salary of circa £48,000 to £52,000 plus an excellent benefits package.

The Role

The Demand Team is responsible for the creation and continual review of the strategy for delivering the demand reductions set out in the Environment Act (including leakage, and HH and NHH per capita consumption), setting targets that are approved by the Executive and signed off as deliverable by SWWBB delivery teams. The team provides technical leadership, strategy and monitoring for demand for the short, medium and long term (in year, in AMP to 50 years) and play a critical internal educative role around demand planning and delivery.

In this role, you will oversee monitoring and reporting on the progress of the Demand Strategy, conducting an annual performance review and revising strategies based on review findings. You will collaborate closely with delivery teams to establish realistic and achievable targets as part of ongoing strategy development and review activities.

Additionally, you will develop a strategy for long-term engagement with NHH (Non-Household) customers and retailers, ensuring alignment with the broader Demand Strategy and incorporating insights from annual reviews as needed.

To excel, you should bring a robust background in water resources management, specializing in demand forecasting and strategic planning. Your proven track record in developing and implementing effective demand management strategies will be critical in optimizing water usage and promoting sustainability. Strong leadership skills and a clear vision will guide SWWBB toward achieving its water resource sustainability goals.

Given the role's dynamic nature and evolving regulatory environment, adaptability and resilience are crucial traits for navigating complex challenges and driving strategic initiatives forward.

What you'll be doing:

• Lead the comprehensive development of the demand strategy across all regions, overseeing all aspects including long-term planning and investment decisions aimed at achieving water resource sustainability goals.
• Provide strategic leadership to ensure SWWBB's objectives align with effective demand management, guiding teams in commissioning and overseeing detailed water usage data analysis, trends, and forecasting through MDS.
• Collaborate closely with delivery teams and the wider demand management group to formulate and refine future investment options that meet required reductions in water demand.
• Actively participate in sector working groups to drive innovation and adoption of advanced demand management techniques, positioning SWW at the forefront of industry practices.
• Take charge of the investment appraisal and optimization process for the demand strategy, preparing robust business cases for securing necessary investments during price reviews.
• Responsible for integrating all aspects of demand and demand investment into SWWBB's business plans, ensuring strategic alignment and compliance with regulatory standards.

What we are looking for:

• Extensive experience in water resources management, including demand forecasting, strategic planning, policy development, and implementing demand management strategies and initiatives.
• Proven leadership in guiding teams, providing technical oversight, strategic planning, analysis, and forecasting techniques related to water demand, along with skills in building consensus, negotiating agreements, and managing relationships for effective strategy implementation.
• Scientific/ Environmental/ Engineering related Degree.
• Familiarity with water resource systems, including supply infrastructure, distribution networks, and storage facilities, to understand water demand-supply dynamics.
• Understanding of water management principles, conservation techniques, sustainable practices, industry best practices, UK water efficiency policies, and proficiency in influencing stakeholders and managing resources effectively.
• Forward-thinking mindset with strong prioritization, project management, ownership of tasks, attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to develop strong external relationships through effective communication.

What's in it for you:

This isn’t just a job, this is a career; the opportunities to develop and grow your career with us are endless. Alongside ongoing training and development opportunities we offer some great benefits:

• 26 days holiday allowance rising to 30 days plus bank holidays.
• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Professional progression routes.
• Generous contributory pension scheme.
• Discretionary bonus.
• Share save scheme.
• Subsidised healthcare benefits.
• Plus, many more!