Process Improvement & Governance: Ensure procurement processes align with corporate objectives, health & safety, and environmental standards, while championing continuous improvement and efficiency
Commercial Support for Projects: Provide analytical and commercial input into key business decisions and investment cases, including risk modelling and evaluation of strategic procurement projects
Category & Commercial Strategy: Own and deliver long-term procurement strategies for high-value/risk categories, providing expert market insights and aligning plans with strategic business goals
Procurement Business Partnering: Advise and challenge senior stakeholders on procurement planning, ensuring compliance, accountability, and risk-aware decision-making across operational and capital spend
Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing: Support team resilience through cross-coverage, align internal processes, and share expertise to build capability across the Procurement team and stakeholders
Contract & Supplier Management: Monitor and manage supplier performance, conduct due diligence, lead contract reviews, and drive continuous improvement through data-driven KPIs and stakeholder feedback
Sourcing & Contracting: Lead the end-to-end sourcing process using best practice tools, from contract design and tendering to negotiation and award recommendations, ensuring legal, regulatory, and commercial compliance
Requirements
erp
cips
negotiation
stakeholder management
cost savings
it procurement
Knowledge of ERP systems SRM sourcing and e-procurement tools
A CIPS qualification (or working towards) would also be highly desirable
Excellent verbal communication skills at all levels and the ability to recognise, plan and deliver business change
Proven strong negotiation and client/supply chain management experience; managing cost and value drivers effectively
Working knowledge of UK/EU Procurement Regulations and different forms of contracts and commercial models
Strong commercial and strategic mind-set; understanding the role of Procurement in delivering corporate goals and managing risk
Experience delivering efficiency/cost savings/value for money within a supply chain management function - with particular experience in the procurement of IT goods and services.
Excellent stakeholder management skills with a proven ability to communicate, support and challenge people across different business functions, backgrounds and all levels of seniority
Benefits
Competitive Contributory Pension
In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
Wellbeing support programmes
A discretionary Bonus
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition
Cycle to Work Scheme
Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
A range of Group Discounts
Financial support services
Share-save Scheme
Training + Development
Information not given or found
Interview process
Information not given or found
Visa Sponsorship
Information not given or found
Security clearance
Information not given or found
Company
Overview
30 Years
Experience in Water Services
The company has extensive experience providing water services to the region.
2,000 Employees
Dedicated Staff
The company employs a large team to deliver vital water services.
1.6M People
Serving the Community
The company plays a vital role in managing the water supply for over 1.6 million people across multiple regions.
South West Water is a leading provider of water and wastewater services, covering Cornwall, Devon, and parts of Dorset.
The company is known for pioneering innovation in water treatment and sustainability efforts across its service regions.
Specializes in providing clean, safe water and efficient wastewater treatment to both residential and commercial customers.
Committed to ensuring the highest standards of water quality and environmental stewardship in all its operations.
One of the standout projects includes the upgrade of wastewater treatment facilities to meet growing demand and environmental standards.
South West Water's operations span a variety of sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial water services.
Culture + Values
Trusted
Collaborative
Responsible
Progressive
Environment + Sustainability
100k tonnes CO₂
Operational carbon emissions target
The company aims to achieve net zero by 2030 by reducing operational carbon emissions by up to 100,000 tonnes of CO₂.
100%
Electric vehicle fleet
The company operates a 100% electric car and van fleet, contributing to reduced emissions.
250k trees
Tree planting initiative
The company plans to plant 250,000 trees by 2025 to support reforestation and carbon sequestration.
£2.5B investment
Sustainability investment
The company has committed £2.5 billion from 2025–2030 for storm overflow reduction, nutrient pollution prevention, and biodiversity conservation.
Biogas capture from wastewater treatment and use for vehicle fuel or grid injection
Hydro-electric generation at Mary Tavy, solar PV and wind on-site
Reducing leaks by 15%
Restoring peatland to store carbon and enhance biodiversity
Since 2019, nature-based solutions include managing 126,733 ha land, restoring 3,907 ha peatland
Inclusion & Diversity
30%
Gender Diversity Target
Committed to increasing gender diversity in boardrooms and business leadership.
10k Interns
Black Internship Initiative
Supporting the 10,000 Black Interns initiative to expand career opportunities.
Disability Confident employer
Women’s Network, LGBTQ+ Network, and other employee networks influencing business direction
Mental Health Awareness Month, Black History Month, and guest‑speaker events hosted
Company‑wide statement: “Be Rock Solid – Build trust and be trusted”; “Be You – bring your best… make your mark”; “Be the Future – Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.”