Network Performance Manager

The role:

Step into a pivotal leadership position where you’ll play a direct role in safeguarding one of our most essential services — the continuous supply of safe, high-quality water. As a key driver of network optimisation, you will lead the development and delivery of tactical improvement plans that ensure our water network operates efficiently, meets regulatory standards, and consistently delivers for our customers.

You’ll inspire and lead a multi-disciplinary team of Network Performance Engineers, Network Analysts, and Leakage Analysts, shaping how the network performs today and how it evolves for the future.

What you'll be doing:

In this dynamic and high-impact role, you’ll lead from the front — driving performance, innovation, and collaboration across the network. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading and developing the Network Performance team to deliver tactical plans that optimise network operations and performance.
• Championing safety by ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and supporting the delivery of Safety Health Improvement Plans.
• Using data-led insights and bottom-up analysis, alongside the DOMS process, to identify and unlock opportunities to enhance network performance.
• Implementing regional strategies such as serviceability improvements, ensuring alignment with wider business objectives.
• Proactively identifying risks to service delivery and regulatory commitments, developing both short-term mitigations and long-term solutions.
• Collaborating with Network Performance Managers and Risk Managers to drive investment decisions and turn strategy into actionable plans.
• Working closely with Network, Customer, and Leakage teams to deliver operational improvements and tangible outcomes.
• Supporting the rollout of non-core maintenance initiatives, including PMVs, metering, diversions, and minor mains improvement schemes.
• Partnering with Construction teams and the Construction Alliance to support the development and delivery of capital projects.
• Leading regional projects, trials, and innovation initiatives to continuously improve network performance.
• Providing critical operational support during incidents and emergencies.
• Managing budgets effectively, including operational spend, overtime approvals, expenses, and capitalisation of costs.

This role may not be eligible for sponsorship

What we're looking for:

We’re seeking a driven and forward-thinking leader who thrives in a fast-paced operational environment and is passionate about delivering excellence.

• Proven experience in Network Investment/Improvement, or strong financial/technical expertise gained in a related area.
• Solid experience within the water network sector, supported by relevant technical and/or financial qualifications (minimum HNC or degree level).
• Working towards membership of a recognised professional body is desirable.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with a track record of building, developing, and motivating high-performing teams.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• A proactive, adaptable mindset with the ability to respond quickly to changing priorities and solve complex problems creatively.

A full UK driving licence is required for this role

What we offer:

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
• Best Doctors
• Salary Finance
• Wealth at Work courses
• Deals and discounts
• EVolve Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Mental health first aiders
• ShareBuy
• MORE Choices flexible benefits
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Salary - Competitive
Work Type - Onsite
Job Location - Eccles Wastewater Treatment Works, Peel Green Road, Eccles, Manchester, M30 7DR
Role Type - Permanent
Employment Type - Full Time
Working Hours - 37 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.