An exciting opportunity has become available for an experienced leakage specialist to lead one of Scotland’s most significant water network programmes. We’re looking for a Head of Operations with strong leakage expertise, commercial awareness, and the ability to lead high‑performing teams.
This role is based out of the Glasgow depot and will cover all areas of Scotland.
In this role, you will take full responsibility for a major Scottish Water framework. You’ll shape strategy, drive innovation, and deliver clear improvements in water loss, network performance, and regulatory results. If you enjoy technical problem‑solving, improving operational delivery, and leading multidisciplinary teams, this position offers the chance to make a real impact.
What You’ll Lead:
Technical & Operational Leadership
* Lead all leakage reduction activities, including ALC, network monitoring and repair programmes.
* Manage field, technical and analytical teams to deliver high‑quality, compliant performance.
* Align operational delivery with asset strategies, regulatory targets and contractual KPIs.
* Use data, insights and smart network technologies to drive continuous improvement.
Commercial & Financial Ownership
* Take full responsibility for budgets, forecasting and financial performance.
* Monitor commercial KPIs to ensure delivery meets contractual and profitability expectations.
* Identify opportunities for efficiency, innovation and framework growth.
* Support commercial governance through structured reporting and risk management.
* Resource Planning & Performance Management
* Oversee workforce planning and resource allocation across multiple disciplines.
* Track KPIs, productivity and programme milestones to maintain delivery momentum.
* Implement corrective actions to protect performance and programme outcomes.
* Support the development of team capability, technical competence and leadership strength.
Health, Safety & Regulatory Compliance
* Champion a proactive safety culture across all operational teams.
* Ensure compliance with HSE legislation, client standards and internal governance.
* Lead audits, briefings and incident management to maintain a safe working environment.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
* Act as the primary interface for Scottish Water, building strong strategic relationships.
* Provide clear reporting on performance, risks and improvement plans.
* Offer technical insight to support long‑term leakage reduction planning and framework optimisation.
* Represent the business as a trusted advisor on leakage strategy and operational excellence.
What You Bring
* This role requires proven, hands‑on leakage management experience. Candidates without leakage or water network experience will not be considered.
* Strong background in leakage reduction, ALC operations or network optimisation.
* Leadership experience across operational, technical and client‑facing teams.
* Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets, KPIs and contract performance.
* Solid understanding of HSE, regulatory compliance and industry standards.
* Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and problem‑solving skills.
What’s in It for You
* Excellent salary reflective of senior responsibility.
* Bonus reward scheme recognising high performance.
* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Band B Company Car Scheme.
* A forward‑thinking employer committed to innovation, people development and operational excellence.
If you’re ready to lead one of Scotland’s most important leakage reduction programmes as Head of Operations and want to join a progressive organisation that values innovation and high performance, click apply now.
Due to the high volume of applications, we may not be able to respond to everyone. If you haven’t heard from us within 2 weeks, please assume your application has not been successful on this occasion.
Finlay Jude Associates Ltd acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. We are committed to equality and diversity; all candidates are assessed solely on merit, qualifications, and ability to perform the role.
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