Regional Industrial Cleaning Manager

Job Description

Bioresource & Energy Services | Operations Leadership

We’re looking for an experienced and driven Regional Industrial Cleaning Manager to lead the delivery of specialist industrial cleaning services across our region.

This is a senior operational leadership role, accountable for safety, performance, compliance and financial delivery of a large, business‑critical service. You’ll work closely with the Head of Bioresource Operations, shaping regional strategy while remaining hands‑on in operational delivery.

About The Role

You’ll have full accountability for planned and reactive industrial cleaning activities, including the expansion and delivery of new IED cleaning requirements. Operating in a highly regulated environment, you’ll provide senior leadership to an operational workforce, overseeing performance and ensuring services are delivered safely, efficiently, and compliantly across Water, Wastewater, and Bioresource business areas.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and deliver the regional industrial cleaning service, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient operations
• Develop and own the regional industrial cleaning business plan, aligned to regulatory change and future demand
• Full accountability for delivery of the regional programme, reporting to the Head of Bioresource Operations
• Lead and performance‑manage a large, geographically dispersed operational workforce, including contractors
• Manage a c. £20m annual OPEX budget, identifying efficiencies and continuous improvements
• Act as Transport Manager for Industrial Cleaning Services, ensuring compliance with all transport and CPC requirements
• Oversee contractor performance, commercial arrangements and future supply chain strategies
• Influence fleet replacement strategy and capital investment planning
• Develop and deliver a robust Health, Safety & Wellbeing plan, aligned to wider business HSE strategy
• Act as the regional subject matter expert for industrial cleaning, supporting cross‑business emergency response
• Lead regional improvement projects and performance reporting through KPIs and scorecards
• Stay ahead of legislative and regulatory changes affecting industrial cleaning and transport operations.

What We're Looking For

• A valid UK driving license is essential due to the regional nature of the role.
• Degree‑level qualification in a technical or related discipline, or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Proven leadership experience delivering results in a highly regulated environment.
• Previous experience operating, managing or overseeing DISAB Vactor units within an industrial cleaning or wastewater environment would be highly advantageous.
• Experience managing large operational teams across multiple locations.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen, including budget ownership.
• Excellent working knowledge of industrial cleaning regulations and transport legislation.
• Technical understanding of vacuum waste tankers and industrial cleaning equipment.
• Confident, credible leader with strong stakeholder and communication skills.

Why this role?

This role offers:

• Senior leadership responsibility with real business impact
• High visibility and influence across the business
• The opportunity to shape and grow a critical, specialist service
• A balance of strategic planning and operational leadership

Benefits

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, rising to 30 with service, plus 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 20% performance‑related bonus, plus recognition awards
• £5000 Annual Car Allowance
• Company‑funded healthcare plan
• MyGymDiscounts – up to 25% off 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

About Us

Regional Industrial Cleaning Manager

Salary – Competitive Salary + £5000 Car Allowance and comprehensive benefits package

Work Type – Hybrid

Job Location – Manchester or Warrington

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 contribution.