Head of Ford

## Head of Ford/Aylesford Apply locations:
FALMER:
CHICHESTER:
Durrington Head Office:
Havantposted on:
Posted Todaytime left to apply:
End Date:
August 7, 2026 (24 days left to apply) job requisition :
JR8661
** Closing Date
**** Job Title**:
Head of Ford/Aylesford – Water Recycling
*
* Location:

** Falmer, East Sussex (Hybrid)
** Contract Type:
** Permanent
*
* Hours:

** 37, Monday to Friday
** Salary:**  £competitive salary, pension + car allowance

There has never been a more important time to join Southern Water. As we move through
** 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
** Reporting into the Managing Director Capital Projects as part of the Capital Projects Leadership team, the Head of Ford & Aylesford is a single point accountable for the delivery of the pair of alternatively financed recycling projects the company is committed to deliver. The role provides leadership to strategically manage safety, risk, monitor finances and ensure each phase of work is started or completed on time.  

This is a unique opportunity to lead on two pioneering water recycling projects.
** What you will be responsible for
*** Lead and own the development of and defining of project objectives, requirements and milestones. Overseeing the preparation and allocation of budgets as well as liaising with internal and external stakeholders to ensure all parties are aligned with the project's direction. Implementing risk management processes to mitigate project risks effectively.
* In support of delivery,  the role holder will need to manage not only the technical development but also deliver and integrate the following elements:  + All commercial agreements associated with the projects;  + The delivery of the DPC scheme to fund, build and operate the Ford/Aylesford plants, namely the tender, selection and award of the Competitively Appointed Provider (CAP). As part of this the role will include ensuring delivery of the successful negotiation of the associated construction and financing agreements;  

+ The successful delivery of the relevant planning processes.
* You will bring a blend of project, technical, financial and commercial leadership, partnered with an outcome focused mindset to the team. Most important, is the ability to integrate between these elements. You will anticipate and identify risks and opportunities which impact key metrics of performance and collaborate internally and externally to proactively develop mitigations to maintain confidence and progress.
** What you’ll bring to the role
*** Demonstrable experience of creating and executing strategies to gain external and internal buy in.
* Deep understanding and significant experience in commercial delivery of complex schemes within highly regulated sectors.
* Excellent communicator, at Leadership & Executive level – able to engage and articulate insight and recommendations succinctly and persuasively.
* Demonstrable people leadership, management and development experience.
* Excellent level of numeracy and literacy with attention to detail, with presentation and effective communication of findings and actionable insight proposals.
* High level of understanding and experience of Project and Programme Delivery principles and practices – within the context of a Regulated Industry.
* An understanding of and experience in managing programmes through the entire project lifecycle, including feasibility studies, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning.

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…