Regulatory Analysis Manager

Job Description

Regulatory Analysis Manager

Location: Warrington (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)

Business Area: Regulation & Compliance

Salary: Competitive, with excellent benefits

Contract: Permanent

Shape the future of water regulation at United Utilities United Utilities is embarking on one of the most ambitious investment periods in its history around £13bn of totex in AMP8 alone. To deliver this successfully, we need sharp, strategic thinkers who can turn complex analysis into powerful insight. If you’re energised by economic regulation, cost assessment, financial modelling and influencing regulatory outcomes, this is your opportunity to make a real impact. We’re looking for a Regulatory Analysis Manager to take a leading role in shaping our price review strategy, influencing Ofwat, and guiding the analytical thinking that underpins our business plans. This is a rare chance to step into a high profile, high impact role at the heart of the UK water sector.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll be the company’s go to expert for cost assessment and financial modelling two of the most strategically important areas of the price review process.

Your key responsibilities will include:

Cost Assessment Leadership

• Lead United Utilities’ wholesale cost assessment approach, including econometric modelling and challenge processes.
• Influence Ofwat’s methodology and ensure our business plan proposals are robust, evidence based and credible.
• Work closely with Wholesale teams to shape information requirements and provide constructive challenge.

Financial Modelling Excellence

• Own the development of price control financial models used to assess allowed revenues, customer bills and financeability.
• Produce scenarios and strategic insights that shape our overall price review strategy.

Regulatory Strategy & Influence

• Develop and articulate UU’s positions on price review financial methodology.
• Produce high‑quality submissions and representations to Ofwat.
• Represent UU externally across the industry and directly with Ofwat on key regulatory issues.

Leadership & Development

• Manage a small team and oversee the Regulation & Compliance graduate programme.
• Support the development of future regulatory talent through structured placements and coaching.

This role works closely with senior leaders, including the Water Regulation Director and Finance Director, and contributes directly to board level decision making.

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for someone who combines analytical strength with strategic thinking and the confidence to influence at senior levels.

Essential skills & experience

• Strong numerical and analytical capability, with excellent spreadsheet skills.
• Experience in producing or managing regulatory submissions ideally including cost assessment.
• Understanding of how Ofwat assesses water companies’ performance and the wider economic regulatory framework of the water sector.
• Experience in statistical or econometric modelling in a regulated sector ideally including the water sector.
• Experience in financial or accounting analysis.
• Ability to translate complex analysis into clear, compelling insight for executive audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to explain technical concepts simply.
• Experience managing a varied workload.
• A good first degree in a numerate discipline.

Highly desirable

• Hands on experience in the water sector.
• Experience in consultancy supporting regulatory submissions.
• Experience in managing and leading a small team.
• Familiarity with Stata or similar statistical software.
• Recent experience working with or within a regulator.

If you have the analytical strength, regulatory understanding and the drive to influence major strategic decisions, we want to hear from you.

We offer:

• Hybrid working (3 days onsite in Warrington)
• A competitive salary
• 5k car allowance
• Up to 20% bonus
• 21% combined pension contribution
• Private healthcare
• A culture that values innovation, integrity and impact
• The chance to shape the future of water regulation in the UK

Why United Utilities?

At UU, you’ll be part of a team that keeps the North West flowing. You’ll work on challenges that matter environmentally, socially and economically. You’ll join a supportive, collaborative Regulation & Compliance team where your expertise will be valued and your development supported.