Head of Policy (Household)

Consumer Council for Water; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 125,000 - GBP 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water consumer advocacy organization is seeking a Policy Manager to lead the development of their policy strategy. The role involves influencing government and industry stakeholders, managing a high-performing team, and overseeing external research. Ideal candidates will have a strong grasp of regulatory frameworks and experience in fast-paced policy environments. This role offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on outcomes for water consumers across England and Wales.

Qualifications

• Confident and forward-thinking policy professional.
• History of achieving impactful outcomes in water policy.
• Ability to work in fast-paced policy environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of CCW’s policy strategy.
• Influence government and regulators with data-driven insights.
• Manage a high-performing team and oversee external research.
• Represent the organization at senior-level forums.

Skills

Strong grasp of regulatory frameworks

Leading complex projects

Stakeholder engagement

Translating complex information into policy

Job description

The Consumer Council for Water ( CCW ) is proud to protect the interests of water consumers in England and in Wales. We are a small organisation, but a high-impact one, and work with governments, water companies and regulators to resolve customer detriment. We are delighted with what we have accomplished so far: since we were established in 2005, we have helped thousands of consumers resolve complaints against their water company or retailer. All our work is informed by extensive research, which we use to champion the interests of consumers and influence water companies, governments and regulators. 2025 has been a year of achievements and collaboration in which we have forged strong partnerships to tackle some of the most pressing issues affecting consumers.

Leading the development and delivery of CCW ’s policy strategy, this position is instrumental in shaping evidence-based approaches to key issues such as affordability, service quality, resilience, and environmental performance. You will influence government, regulators, and industry stakeholders through strategic use of data and insight to drive meaningful change for water consumers. You will manage a high-performing team, oversee external research, and maintain CCW ’s policy framework. Responsibilities also include representing the organisation at senior-level forums, and working closely with colleagues across the organisation to align policy with communications, engagement, and consumer relations, ensuring a joined-up and impactful approach.

We are looking for a confident and forward-thinking policy professional. You will bring a strong grasp of regulatory frameworks, a track record of leading complex projects, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced policy environments. You will be comfortable working with a wide range of stakeholders and translating complex information into clear, actionable policy. This is a high-impact role suited to someone who brings energy, strategic vision, and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for water consumers across England and Wales.

How to apply

This role is being recruited by GatenbySanderson

For further information about the role and how to apply, please visit the GatenbySanderson website.