Water Resources Security of Supply – Senior Advisor - 32754

The Environment Agency are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We don't just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities, and our environment.

By the end of 2026, you will have contributed to introducing the regulations that will require all water using products in the home to have a new mandatory water efficiency label. In doing so, you will have one of the biggest roles in improving water efficiency across the UK and meeting the Government’s statutory demand target. You will help both the Environment Agency and Defra achieve the demand management goals as outlined in the Environment Improvement Plan. To do this, you will work closely with Defra colleagues and other government departments and will provide technical support including managing the contractors that will develop a labelling database, evaluating the impact of the label on public water consumption, producing guidance and engaging with stakeholders. Once the labelling regulations are live, you will assist with managing queries, for example from manufacturers, retailers and developers, alongside dealing with any technical issues and making improvements to guidance. In addition to this role, you will be expected to support the wider team leading on water demand management work, involved in water resources management plans and water company drought plans.

The role involves working closely with Defra colleagues and in addition experts in the Environment Agency, Ofwat and externally with water companies, consultants and important partners such as Waterwise.

This post is offered as a permanent position.

To achieve the above, the post holder should be able to demonstrate technical experience of water demand management and/or water resources planning, and should demonstrate key influencing, project management and communication skills.

You’ll join our water resources security of supply team that sets the direction for water resources planning including our statutory duty to conserve water through water efficiency and demand management.

We’re a dispersed team within the Environment and Business (E&B) Directorate.

In E&B we promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive culture where everyone feels valued. We use evidence, expertise, engagement, and innovation to enhance and support delivery, influence policy, legislation, and secure resources.

We are looking for someone who is ready for an interesting but challenging job. We would be very interested in hearing from you if you have the following experience:

• building, maintaining and maximising relationships with good communication skills
• ability to scope, lead and deliver specific projects depending on team and government priorities, demonstrating value for money
• excellent written and verbal communication skills
• an excellent track record of achieving results
• it would be good if you have technical experience of water efficiency and demand management as well as water resources planning but support can be given if you don’t have this knowledge

 In your capability-based answers please demonstrate your:

• ability to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and actively encourage others to consider diversity issues in their work.

 You’ll have a range of development opportunities and appropriate training will be provided.

You’ll have an EA Office base location, as a national role the working location is flexible / hybrid.

We use smart tools to stay connected but some travel and overnights may be required, especially to London.

Please read the Candidate / Additional Information Pack for information. Any queries, contact stuart.sampson@environment-agency.gov.uk or alison.murphy@environment-agency.gov.uk

Applications are “blind” assessed using your answers to the competency questions.

Interviews should be held via MS Teams within two weeks of the closing date.