Project Manager, Operations Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager

** Closing Date
** 09/03/2026

Job Title:

Project Manager

Location:

Kent Contract Type:
Permanent

Hours:

37 hours per week Salary:
Up to £53,000 per annum plus a business needs car
** About the role
** We’re looking for a driven and commercially astute Project Manager to join Southern Water’s Contractor Service Delivery team, helping to deliver cost‑effective maintenance and operational capital projects across our critical assets.

You’ll own projects end‑to‑end identifying value‑led solutions, defining scope, managing contractors, and ensuring safe, high‑quality delivery to time and budget. The role involves managing multiple projects, with responsibility for contract administration, cost and budget control, compliance, reporting, and contractor H&S performance.

Reporting to the Senior Project Manager, you’ll be part of a high‑performing team of six Project Managers delivering operational capital projects valued at around **£50m**. This is a key role within Southern Water, offering real influence, accountability, and the opportunity to apply strong governance, financial control, and delivery expertise in a fast‑paced operational environment.
** What you will be responsible for:
*** Leading project delivery with an uncompromising commitment to health, safety, and environmental excellence, setting clear expectations for contractors and suppliers.
* Managing and controlling contractor performance across H&S, scope, cost, and quality, supported by strong governance, audits, site inspections, and commercial negotiations.
* Owning budget and cost management across multiple work streams, producing accurate forecasts, final cost projections, and budget vs. actual analysis using robust management information.
* Developing practical, value‑led solutions that balance operational needs with cost constraints ensuring essential works are delivered while avoiding unnecessary “gold‑plating.”
* Reviewing and approving contractor payment applications, ensuring costs align with agreed scope and that works are completed to the required standard.
* Attending operational sites to undertake cost verification, assurance checks, and stakeholder meetings as required.
* Driving performance against milestones, KPIs, and delivery targets, contributing to Southern Water’s SIM and wider operational objectives.
* Building strong, collaborative relationships with operational site owners, contractors, and internal stakeholders, acting as a trusted delivery and commercial partner.
** What you’ll bring to the role:
***** Essential
* *** Proven Project Management experience preferably within a utility environment
* Solid technical and operational background with demonstrable experience delivering maintenance or operational projects.
* Strong understanding of the regulatory and legislative framework relevant to utility operations.
* Thorough knowledge of contractual and commercial conditions, with confidence managing cost, scope, and contractor performance.
* A track record of delivering cost‑effective solutions that balance operational needs, customer outcomes, and financial control.
* Highly effective stakeholder management skills, with the ability to liaise confidently with operational site owners, customers, and contractors.
* Comfortable working in a highly autonomous role, using strong influencing, negotiating, and networking skills to drive performance and secure high service standards.
* Strong commitment to health, safety, and environmental compliance, ensuring contractor awareness and adherence at all times.
*** Desirable
* *** Formal Project Management qualifications such as APM or PRINCE
2.
* Health & Safety qualifications (IOSH, NEBOSH or equivalent).
* Experience delivering projects within operational capital or planned maintenance frameworks.
* Willingness to work towards relevant project or H&S qualifications if not already held
** About Southern Water
** Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a…