Management Associate, Operations Manager

What's the Opportunity We are growing our Project Management team within the Water and Regulated Utilities sector and have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Associate Project Manager. You will lead the delivery of complex infrastructure projects and programmes for major UK water utilities and environmental agencies. This is a senior leadership position requiring strong technical expertise, commercial acumen, and the ability to inspire and manage high-performing teams.

What you need to do to be effective in this role Lead and oversee multiple projects and multidisciplinary teams, ensuring delivery to time, cost, and quality standards. Develop and maintain strategic client relationships, identifying opportunities for business development and growth. Provide expert advice on regulatory and commercial frameworks within the water sector. Ensure compliance with governance, risk, and assurance processes across all projects.

Mentor and develop project managers and senior project managers within the team. Contribute to thought leadership and represent the business at industry forums and events. The skills and experience you need to have for this role Project Leadership: 8 years' experience delivering complex infrastructure projects/programmes end-to-end, ideally in water or regulated utilities. Strategic Oversight:
Proven ability to manage multiple projects and multidisciplinary teams at a senior level. Commercial Acumen:
Deep understanding of regulatory and commercial frameworks, with strong knowledge of NEC contracts and governance requirements. Sector Knowledge:
Experience in the water industry or regulated utilities, with awareness of governance requirements and sector-specific delivery models. Stakeholder Management:
Excellent communication and influencing skills, with experience managing senior client relationships. Tools:
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management platforms (e.g. MS Project, Primavera P6), with familiarity in reporting tools such as Power BI and document control systems like SharePoint. Additional experience that would be beneficial includes:
Managing client frameworks and leading bid submissions. Consultancy-side leadership experience. Previous involvement in Environment Agency or major water utility projects. Experience in design management and integrated delivery models.

Qualifications:

Degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Project Management, or related field. Professional qualifications such as APM PMQ, PRINCE2 Practitioner, or equivalent. Chartered Status (e.g. ChPP, CEng, MRICS) essential; NEC accreditation beneficial. Why join us? You'll be part of a growing leadership team delivering critical infrastructure programmes for major UK water companies and regulated utilities.

This role offers the opportunity to shape strategy, lead high-profile portfolios, and influence the future of water sector delivery while progressing your career.