Programme Commissioning Manager

Within Commercial Operations, our Commissioning team plays a critical role in bringing new water and water recycling infrastructure to life. We ensure that treatment plants and systems are tested, optimised and fully operational before handover, delivering safe, reliable and high-performing assets for millions of customers.

Working as part of our capital delivery alliances, we collaborate closely with engineering, design, construction and operational teams to deliver complex programmes efficiently and safely. This is an exciting opportunity to take on a senior leadership role shaping commissioning delivery at scale.

As a Programme Commissioning Manager, you will lead the commissioning of a portfolio of non-infrastructure projects, ensuring assets are delivered safely, on time and to the highest standards. You will develop and deliver a strategic commissioning plan across your portfolio, providing clear direction and oversight while monitoring progress, risks and performance.

You’ll work closely with Delivery Directors, project teams and alliance partners to remove blockers, resolve challenges and ensure the right technical expertise is deployed across projects. A key part of your role will be driving a proactive commissioning culture—ensuring teams take ownership, minimise rework and achieve smooth, first-time handovers into operations.

You will lead and develop a team of commissioning professionals, supporting their growth while fostering strong collaboration across engineering, operational and delivery teams. You’ll also play a key role in embedding best practice, improving processes and driving innovation in commissioning delivery, including the use of digital solutions to enhance visibility and performance.

In addition, you will champion health, safety and wellbeing, ensuring robust processes and standards are in place across all stages of commissioning, and actively contribute to improving industry-leading safety performance.

We’re looking for a highly capable leader with strong technical and operational experience:

• Degree-level qualification in an engineering or relevant discipline (or equivalent experience)
• Significant experience in water or water recycling operations and commissioning
• Proven track record of leading teams to deliver fully commissioned assets in complex, high-pressure environments
• Strong understanding of commissioning processes, automation systems and project delivery
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and work effectively across alliance partnerships
• Experience in developing best practice and embedding continuous improvement
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing technologies and delivery challenges
• Full UK driving licence
• Professional membership (or working towards) such as MIET, IMechE, CIWEM or similar (desirable)

You’ll also be someone who leads by example, builds strong relationships and drives a culture of accountability, collaboration and excellence.

Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to supporting and rewarding them:

• Bonus scheme
• Private healthcare
• Competitive pension scheme, contribution upto 7%
• Company car or allowance
• Up to 26 days annual leave, increasing with service
• Flexible benefits to support your wellbeing
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, supported and able to thrive.

If you’re ready to lead commissioning at scale and deliver critical infrastructure that makes a real difference—apply today.