Improvements Programme Lead

United Utilities; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water utility provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a passionate leader to spearhead their Pollution Taskforce. The role involves influencing national policy, managing environmental transformation programmes, and building strong relationships with regulators. Ideal candidates will have proven leadership experience, excellent stakeholder management skills, and a passion for driving environmental change. The organization offers a competitive salary, generous benefits including a car allowance and a strong focus on work-life balance.

Benefits

Annual leave package of 26 days, increasing to 30

Competitive pension scheme

Performance-related bonus scheme

Car allowance of £5000

Comprehensive healthcare plan

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading transformation programmes.
• Excellent influencing skills at senior levels.
• Strong technical knowledge of environmental compliance is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Pollution Taskforce and deliver the pollution strategy.
• Drive environmental transformation in Water, Wastewater, and Bioresources.
• Build relationships with regulators to influence change.

Skills

Leadership of multi-disciplinary teams

Stakeholder management

Data interpretation for performance improvement

Environmental compliance knowledge

Adaptability

Job description

Job number UU04416 Country United Kingdom Region Cheshire West and Chester Location name Lingley Mere (UU), Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, WA5 3LP Posting End Date 29/01/2026 Band 3 Role Type Permanent Work hours 37 Hours per Week Salary Competitive salary

The Role:

At United Utilities, we’re on a mission to deliver high-quality water for a stronger, greener, and healthier region. We’re looking for a passionate leader to spearhead our Pollution Taskforce and drive an ambitious environmental transformation programme that will shape the future of water and waste water services.

Why this role matters:

This is more than a leadership role – it’s an opportunity to influence national policy, work with regulators, and lead a team dedicated to reducing pollution and improving environmental outcomes. You’ll be at the forefront of innovation, using data-driven insights to set new standards and deliver sustainable change.

What you’ll do:

• Lead the Pollution Taskforce and deliver our end-to-end pollution strategy.
• Drive environmental transformation programmes across Water, Wastewater, and Bioresources.
• Build strong relationships with the Environment Agency and industry regulators to influence positive change.
• Use data and insight to improve pollution performance and set operational best practice.
• Represent United Utilities at executive boards and national forums, shaping legislation and industry standards.
• Own and deliver the Pollution Incident Reduction Plan (PIRP), securing board commitment and meeting regulatory expectations.
• Provide expert technical guidance and lead field-based teams to achieve environmental compliance.

What we’re looking for:

• Proven experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams and managing transformation programmes.
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills at senior levels.
• Ability to interpret and use data for performance improvement.
• Resilient, adaptable, and passionate about driving environmental change.
• Strong technical knowledge of environmental compliance and legislation is an advantage.

What we offer:

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service, in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 20% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• £5000 Car allowance
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme At UU, we champion flexible ways of working.In-person attendance is required three days per week to promote the benefits of face-to-face collaboration alongside flexibility of hours to support work-life balance. Initially, you may be expected to attend more frequently to familiarise yourselves with the site, the team, and your role.

About United Utilities:

United Utilities’ (UU) mission is to deliver high-quality water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society. We are proud to be ranked #11 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List. We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.