County Network Operations Lead

Job Description

The Role

We’re looking for an exceptional operational leader to step into a critical role at the heart of our wastewater network.

As County Network Operations Lead, you’ll take ownership of a complex, live operational environment—leading the performance of wastewater networks across your region. This isn’t a programme or project role. This is a dynamic, end-to-end operation where every decision impacts customers, communities, and the environment in real time.

You’ll lead a team of experienced managers and a wider operational workforce, ensuring the safe, efficient and customer-focused delivery of network performance—while also shaping how the operation evolves for the future.

This is a rare opportunity to inherit a well-established function and take it to the next level.

What You'll be doing......

• Leading the end-to-end wastewater network operation, including reactive response, pumping stations and asset performance
• Managing a team of 5 direct reports and an overall function of circa 125 people
• Owning and delivering against a c.£10m operational budget
• Driving operational performance, resilience and continuous improvement
• Responding to escalations across customer, asset and network challenges
• Building and maintaining relationships with senior external stakeholders (including MPs, local authorities and community groups)
• Playing a key role within the senior leadership team, contributing to wider strategic direction
• Identifying trends, risks and opportunities—translating insight into action
• Foster team development through ongoing feedback and coaching, building confidence and capability across the team, with continued emphasis on staff development and succession planning.
• To act as a Health and Safety champion and drive the message that “Nothing we do is worth getting hurt for”
• Ensure the appropriate and timely response to all network operational events or incidents and support with wider business events as required

What We're Looking For......

This is a high-impact leadership role. We’re looking for someone who can combine operational excellence with strategic thinking.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience in utilities operations (e.g. water, gas, electricity networks)
• Strong background in a regulated environment
• A track record of leading large, multi-layered operational teams
• Real-time network/service performance lead
• Strong customer focus and commercial awareness
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners
• The ability to spot trends, think strategically and drive change
• A collaborative leadership style—this role is key to an integrated, high-performing team

Experience within the water industry or network-based environments is highly desirable.

Why This Role?

This is more than a leadership position—it’s a chance to step into a role with real legacy and shape what comes next.

You’ll be:

• Taking over from a long-standing, highly respected leader
• Leading a critical operational function with real visibility and impact
• Given the opportunity to modernise, innovate and improve performance
• Working in a role that blends strategy, operations and stakeholder influence

We’re looking for someone who doesn’t just maintain performance—but elevates it.

Working Pattern

Working Pattern

This role is site-based in Blackburn, with flexibility:

• Typically, 2–3 days on-site (team and leadership engagement)
• Regular time in the field and with stakeholders
• Flexibility to work remotely where appropriate

Why join us?

Alongside a competitive salary, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including:

• 26 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) + bank holidays
• Up to 14% employer pension contribution
• Up to 20% performance‑related bonus
• £5,000 annual car allowance
• Company‑funded healthcare plan
• Discounts, wellbeing support, EV scheme, ShareBuy and more
• Enhanced parental leave and flexible benefit

About Us

Salary - N/A
Work Type - Hybrid
Job Location - Blackburn waste water treatment works, Cuerdale Lane Samlesbury Blackburn Lancashire PR5 0UY
Role Type - Permanent
Employment Type - Full Time
Working Hours - 37.0 Hours per Week

United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great 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 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.

We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.

We rely on every employee to ensure our customers receive the best possible service, day in, day out. In return, we ensure that you will be well rewarded for your efforts, from an excellent salary through to development opportunities that will really kick start a thriving career here at UU.