Head of Overflows – Lead Storm Overflow Programme

About the role

Pennon Group’s South West Water division is seeking a senior leader to head its Storm Overflow improvement programme. The Head of Overflows will shape strategy, plan investments and deliver actions that reduce wastewater spills, protect river and coastal water quality and ensure compliance with evolving environmental regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the Storm Overflow Spill Reduction Plan across the South West network.
• Identify, prioritise and champion investment needs for overflow assets, including pumping stations and treatment works.
• Analyse spill data, conduct root‑cause investigations and design targeted interventions to minimise overflows.
• Lead major capital programmes from concept through to delivery, working closely with Asset Management, Engineering, Operations and Capital Delivery teams.
• Provide technical leadership on regulatory requirements, asset performance and long‑term wastewater strategy.
• Track, report and drive continuous improvement in spill performance and emergency overflow handling.

Required profile

• Proven experience in leading large‑scale environmental or water‑sector programmes.
• Strong understanding of wastewater overflow assets and regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to influence investment decisions and work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑management skills, with a visible leadership presence.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to make a measurable environmental impact across the South West.
• Leadership role with influence over major investment decisions.
• Supportive purpose‑driven culture focused on sustainability and community.