Location
Central London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£81,535 per annum

About the Role
The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) is the independent regulator of drinking water quality in England and Wales, established by Parliament in 1990. Its strategic objective is to protect public health and maintain public confidence by securing safe, sufficient, and clean drinking water now and for future generations.

The Principal Inspector (PI) for Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations 2018 plays a key management role to ensure that drinking water companies implement appropriate and proportional technical and organisational measures to manage risks to the security of their network and information systems, as well as the physical security of assets essential to drinking water supply.

The PI will manage a small team of Inspectors and Performance Analysts to ensure compliance with the NIS Regulations across England and Wales. This involves detailed understanding of complex operational systems controlling water treatment and production across multiple sites serving millions of consumers.

The role requires leadership and supervisory management of regulatory activities, including evaluation of technical information on IT and Operational Technology systems, company liaison, audit and inspection visits, enforcement decisions, and escalation of non-compliance. The PI will foster collaborative relationships with water companies and escalate enforcement actions where necessary, including issuing notices and penalty fines up to £17 million.

Outward-facing responsibilities include engagement with other Competent Authorities, government departments, and senior Defra staff to inform and influence security strategy.

The PI is also part of the Inspectorate’s Management Team, contributing to the overall management of staff and supporting wider Inspectorate activities, including familiarity with Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 and the Water Industry Act 1991.

The role includes producing an annual report on company performance and Inspectorate activity for Ministers in England and Wales.

The Drinking Water Inspectorate operates as a business unit within Defra’s Floods and Water Directorate and recovers its costs from the industry it regulates.

Experience
Post-graduate experience in cyber security, knowledge of water treatment processes and the water industry, and experience of regulation are essential.

About you
You will have strong leadership skills and the ability to manage a small team effectively. You should be able to develop collaborative relationships with regulated companies and other stakeholders, make informed enforcement decisions, and communicate effectively with senior management. A working knowledge of relevant water regulations and legislation is required, alongside an understanding of IT systems and emerging technologies.

You must be able to manage resources efficiently, contribute to the Inspectorate’s reputation, and support cost recovery processes. Flexibility and adaptability to changing legislation and regulatory environments are important.

A valid driving licence is required due to travel demands, often to locations not served by public transport.

Qualifications
The post holder is expected to hold a qualification in cyber security.