Pennon Group
Software Engineering Manager
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Software Engineering Manager
Role: Software Engineering Manager
About the Role
Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose
South West Water delivers safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes. As part of the Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, they are dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint, planting 300,000 trees, restoring peatlands, and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and encourage wildlife growth.
whether you're just starting your career or seeking new professional challenges, their scale and ambition create endless opportunities to shape your aspirations and grow alongside them.
Ready to make a splash? Join their team today.
Job Title
Software Engineering Manager
Location
Bristol HQ or Exeter HQ
Salary
£70,000 – £90,000 (dependent on experience)
Purpose of the Role
As Software Engineering Manager, you will lead both the delivery and long-term ownership of vital software platforms and development services that support essential business operations.
You will oversee new development, enhancements, and change delivery, ensuring that platforms transition seamlessly into operational life and continue to operate securely, reliably, and effectively.
The role blends technological leadership, delivery oversight, governance, and people management. You will ensure all software platforms, development practices, citizen-led solutions, and AI-powered capabilities are secure, resilient, compliant, and fit for purpose in a regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and execute a clear software platform strategy, roadmap, and vision that covers custom applications, APIs, low-code solutions, and legacy systems
- Lead effective delivery of high-quality, predictable software updates, integrations, and changes across internal teams, citizen developers, and third-party suppliers
- Own and prioritise the development backlog, balancing business needs, system stability, risk mitigation, and innovation
- Set up and enforce governance frameworks for low-code development and citizen development to ensure scalability and security
- Manage the responsible implementation of AI-enabled capabilities
- Ensure architectural integrity, security, and regulatory compliance across all technological solutions
- Oversee legacy systems transformation, including associated modernisation and decommissioning strategies
- Maintain stable and resilient platform operations
- Lead, coach, and develop high-performing engineering teams and external partners
- Optimise costs associated with platforms and development strategies
- Provide clear, insightful reporting on delivery risks, maturities, and overall platform health
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Experience Required
- Proven track record leading enterprise-scale software platforms and deployment governance (non-hands-on role)
- Experience managing mixed development ecosystems, including custom systems, packaged software, and low-code platforms
- Strong background in backlog and roadmap management, and delivery structuring (experience with Agile or hybrid methodologies)
- Knowledge of AI governance and ethical deployment in enterprise environments
- Ability to successfully lead multi-disciplinary teams and third-party suppliers
- Background in regulated or operationally critical environments
Qualifications
Essential
- Degree-level or equivalent qualifications
- Certification in Agile, Scrum, SAFe, PRINCE2, MSP, or similar frameworks
- Clear UK Security Clearance (SC) eligibility
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Desirable
- Relevant technical cloud or platform certifications
- Scalable governance experience for low-code platforms and AI solutions
Benefits & Perks
Join South West Water and help shape a reliable, high-quality service for their customers across the South West.
In recognition of your hard work and commitment, as Software Engineering Manager, you’ll enjoy:
- Competitive salary based on experience and expertise
- Company car or car allowance – customized to support your role
- Annual performance-based Bonus Scheme
- Access to a platform Pension Scheme for your future security
- Flexible working options, including flexible hours and hybrid schedules (where possible)
- Employee Assistance Programs and comprehensive healthcare benefits
- Discounts on products and services for employees
- Generous annual leave entitlements
Additional Information
Closing Date
16th July 2026 Due to high application volumes, this position may close early. We encourage applying as soon as possible.
DBS Check
Following a successful selection process, candidates will be required to complete a mandatory DBS check.
Company Culture & Values
Be part of an inclusive, supportive team where you bring your best version of yourself every day. At South West Water, diversity and uniqueness reflect their communities, and a sense of belonging is instinctive.
Their core values are the foundation of their success:
- Be Rock Solid – Build trust and deliver reliability. Your team and colleagues will always look to you as dependable and trusted.
- Be You – Embrace your individuality to make a meaningful mark in your unique way.
- Be the Future – Embrace challenges like trailblazers. Drive progress, and own the journey ahead.
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