Closing Date
23/02/2026
Job Title: Area Risk Specialist
Location: Hampshire area- you can be based at our offices located in Chichester/ Budds Farm- Hybrid (3 days office/ site remaining WFH)- Driving licence essential due to site visit requirements
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37
Salary: Up to £48,000 per annum depending on skills and experience
About the role
The Area Risk Specialist plays a key role in identifying risks which would impact wastewater business objectives across the full asset lifecycle. The role involves assisting in the production of Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans while working with a wide range of stakeholders, including Operations, Delivery Teams, the Environment Agency, OFWAT and local authorities.
It is a varied role that supports regulatory performance commitments and contributes to high‑quality wastewater recycling. You will bring strong risk management, communication and stakeholder skills, with sector or risk experience will be highly advantageous. Please follow this link for more information on our Drainage and Wastewater Management Plan (DWMP)!
What you will be responsible for:
• Experienced in demonstrating the ability to evaluate risks and hazards against business drivers and targets, short and long term to assess resilience.
• Able to demonstrate a successful track record in meeting timescales and ensuring quality of output through effective organisation and prioritisation of tasks.
• A self-starter, being able to demonstrate initiative, having a positive can-do attitude and willingness to work with a wide range of stakeholders at home and in the office.
• Able to demonstrate a high level of numeracy, literacy and IT skills with attention to detail.
The role is responsible for applying consistent risk identification, scoring, analysis, prioritisation and reporting processes aligned to established asset management, risk and resilience frameworks. It also involves identifying asset needs and interpreting performance‑related insights, using key datasets to conduct thorough risk and resilience assessments.
In addition, you will contribute to the production of reports and business updates, including regulatory submissions, while supporting the development of improved asset management systems and processes. A strong focus on maintaining high Health and Safety standards and ensuring effective H&S management is also essential.
You will also be able to facilitate and challenge discussions based on evidence and insights you have obtained.
What you’ll bring to the role:
Essential
1. Strong data analytical skills with the ability to work with and interpret varied data sources.
2. High proficiency in Excel and good working knowledge of Word for analysis and reporting.
3. Highly numerical with the ability to translate data into meaningful insights that support decision‑making.
4. Ability to produce clear, accurate reports to support investment decisions.
Desirable
5. Knowledge of wastewater (WW) processes or assets
6. Experience applying analytical skills within a utilities, engineering, or risk‑based environment
About SW
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.
You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation
"We understand that great talent comes in many forms. If this role excites you and you share our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions for our communities, please apply—even if your experience doesn’t perfectly match every requirement. We’ll support your growth and development."
If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself)
Our Commitment to Diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.