Closing Date
2026-05-08
Job Title: Collections Supplier Performance Manager
Location: Worthing, West Sussex (Hybrid, 2 days per week)
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37, Monday to Friday
Salary: circa £50,000 (depending on skills and experience)
There has never been a more important time to join Southern Water. As we move into AMP8, we are delivering one of the most ambitious capital investment programmes in the industry, focused on improving environmental performance, service resilience and long‑term affordability for customers.
About the role
We are looking for a passionate and experienced Collections Supplier Performance Manager to performance manage and own the overall service delivered by both our onshore and offshore suppliers & DCA’s; ensuring customers receive a best-in-class service. They will work with the third parties to develop a robust service excellence & cash collection culture and will use customer insight and performance data to continuously improve the customer journey, minimise operational and regulatory risk and drive value for money.
What you will be responsible for
1. Effectively performance manage third parties to deliver KPI’s to time, cost and quality, resulting in positive customer outcomes.
2. Carry out audits and quarterly in person visits to ensure suppliers are performing in line with expectations (travel required).
3. Promote a customer centric “Customer First” culture and act as a Customer Champion both internally and externally whilst striking the right balance to maximise cash collection.
4. Act as the escalation point to resolve disputes and is a main point of contacts for suppliers.
5. Able to articulate third party performance effectively to key stakeholders up to director and board level.
What you’ll bring to the role
6. Previous experience in debt recovery supplier performance is essential.
7. Previous experience of the water or energy industry is desirable (but not essential).
8. Excellent numerical, verbal and written communication skills.
9. Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
10. Ability to liaise with stakeholders at all levels - internal / external.
11. Ability to cope under pressure; to be persistent whilst balancing customer needs.
12. A strong supplier relationship background will enable the post holder to act as a conduit to improve the overall operational interface between SW and the third party, using lessons learned for continuous improvement.
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.
"At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you—even if you don’t tick every box. Your unique skills and experiences could be exactly what we need."
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.
Additional information
In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years.
Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all preemployment checks, including security vetting.
Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.
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