Environment Agency • London
About this role
This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal leadership role within Thames Tidal Defences Operations, helping to safeguard London and the Thames Estuary from tidal flooding now and for generations to come. Reporting directly to the Tidal Thames Operations Manager and sitting within the Leadership Team, you will operate at the heart of one of the world’s most complex and high‑profile flood defence systems.
You will provide authoritative specialist and technical leadership, delivering clear, high‑quality advice across the organisation and with external partners. With strategic oversight of all aspects of TTD operations, you will influence flood forecasting, flood warning, operational response and the real‑time operation of the Thames Barrier and its associated gates.
A key focus of the role is ensuring the availability, resilience and performance of tidal forecasting systems, enabling confident, timely decisions that protect millions of people and critical infrastructure. You will also lead and support priority workstreams across investment planning, asset management and operational strategy, shaping delivery in the short, medium and long term in alignment with the Thames Estuary 2100 Plan.
Operationally, you will undertake a vital role ensuring timely decisions on when and how London’s active tidal flood defences are deployed. You will lead and coordinate a skilled team to ensure safe and effective operations and be competent in managing organisational change.
As a visible ambassador for TTD, you will represent the programme internally and externally, proactively driving change, improvement and innovation to ensure that London’s tidal flood defences remain world‑class, resilient and ready for the challenges of climate change.
Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. Everyone that joins us is required to undertake training and participate. Please see the candidate pack for more on how you will support with this.
The team
The Thames Tidal Defences Leadership Team, within Local Operations, are responsible for the full asset management lifecycle of London’s tidal flood defence assets, including their safe and effective operation. As a key member of this team, you will lead six direct reports. Five operate a 24/7, year-round shift system, delivering critical forecasting and flood warning services for the tidal Thames. You will also be supported by a dedicated advisor who provides specialist and technical leadership.
Experience/skills required
We’re seeking candidates with experience of working with meteorological and/or tidal forecasting systems in an operational or engineering environment.
You’ll be degree qualified (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, or have substantial relevant experience, and be chartered or operating at an equivalent professional level.
Successful candidates will be required to join the TTD operational standby team.
You’ll demonstrate strong capability in line management and leadership, with a particular focus on operational competence and technical leadership of forecasting systems.
You’ll be experienced in managing programmes of work and change, promoting high standards of health and safety, and delivering outcomes to time, cost and quality.
You’ll be skilled in resource planning, risk-based decision making, crisis and operational management, and the rigorous application of business, statutory and regulatory standards.
You’ll have a range of development opportunities and training will be provided.
Please read the Candidate Pack and generic role profile for more information.