Lead operations. Shape the future of England's environment.



The Environment Agency plays an important role in the resilience and prosperity of England. From climate resilience to clean land, air and water and enabling sustainable growth.



We are seeking an exceptional Director of Operations to lead our South and South West hub at a pivotal moment for the organisation and the environment. This is a significant leadership role, combining responsibility for a large regional operation with national influence across one of our key operational portfolios.




About the role



Reporting to the Executive Director for Local Operations, you will lead approximately 1,200 colleagues across Devon and Cornwall, Wessex, and Solent and South Downs, alongside responsibility for substantial budgets and operational delivery. You will provide strategic direction, drive performance, productivity and innovation, and ensure our people have the clarity, capability and support needed to achieve outstanding results.



Alongside your regional leadership responsibilities, you will lead the national Organisational Business portfolio, helping shape organisational performance, oversee the implementation of change across operations and strengthen the effectiveness of services that support delivery nationwide. You will work closely with Ministers, Mayors, elected leaders, government departments, local authorities, regulators, businesses and communities, influencing decisions that have lasting environmental and societal impact.




Who we're looking for



We are seeking an exceptional senior leader with experience of leading at scale in a complex operational environment. You will have a strong track record of translating strategy into delivery through transformation, innovation and improved productivity, coupled with the ability to build high-performing, inclusive cultures where people can thrive.



You will bring outstanding judgement, resilience and political awareness, with the confidence to navigate complexity, balance competing stakeholder interests and make sound decisions under pressure. An exceptional communicator, you will be equally credible with frontline teams, senior executives, elected representatives and Ministers. Above all, you will be inspired by our purpose and motivated by the opportunity to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes for current and future generations.



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Documents

Director of Operations, Environment Agency, Information Pack, Sept 2026.pdf

Recruitment Timetable



Closing date

Sunday 27th September



Long listing

Friday 2nd October



Preliminary interviews

W/C 5th October



Short listing

Friday 16th October



Assessment

W/C 19th October



Final Assessments

Friday 30th October




How to apply




Application deadline: 23.59, Sunday 27 September 2026




To apply, please submit the following:

• A copy of your CV (no more than two pages); detail any employment or education gaps.


• A Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.


• Completed questions contained within the candidate pack.

For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact:




Russell Brandon - Russell.Brandon@gatenbysanderson.com


Olivia Robinson - Olivia.Robinson@gatenbysanderson.com


Michelle Atkinson - Michelle.Atkinson@gatenbysanderson.com