The Environment Agency exists to create a better place for people and wildlife. At the heart of this is tackling the climate emergency, which underpins everything that we do. This includes our work on reducing the risk of flooding, regulating industry, advising on sustainable development and farming, improving water quality and managing water resources.

We are looking for a Chief Operating Officer who can make an invaluable addition to our executive team. You’ll take responsibility for the delivery of all national services and operations in England, but also define our overall strategy together with the Chief Executive and wider executive team.

You will also lead a team of directors and build a high performing workforce that can make our strategic vision a reality, which in turn will help the UK address climate change and deal with threats to local environments. Effective collaboration is key, and you’ll engage with the EA’s most senior stakeholders as well as develop a high-profile network of external relationships, including private organisations, environmental experts and government departments.

Experience/skills required  
We need candidates with extensive leadership experience as an operational executive. You’ll have a strong record of company-wide service delivery, managing complex stakeholder arrangements and competing priorities.

Team management is also key, as you’ll manage senior leaders and also a diverse workforce that can expand our internal capabilities. An extensive knowledge of business services as well as environmental legislation are must-haves.