Senior Evaluation Advisor

Senior Evaluation Advisor - Water Industry Enforcement - 32371The Environment Agency are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We don't just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities, and our environment.The Agency is transforming its regulation of the water industry. In the last two years, investments in new resources and powers such as those in the Water (Special Measures) Act aim to maximise the impact and public value of these investments, key to our Corporate Strategy EA2030.ResponsibilitiesLead evaluation of water industry enforcement actions, focusing on ‘what works’ and providing evaluation leadership.Design and implement evaluation frameworks covering process, impact and value for money.Build an evidence base, increasing rigour of evidence measured against the Nesta scale.Apply qualitative and quantitative research methods.Make recommendations for change to senior leaders aimed at improving operational performance, efficiency and effectiveness.The role involves working with managers across the Environment Agency responsible for water enforcement strategy at conceptual and operational levels, helping them understand effectiveness and cost–efficiency of interventions, assess deterrence, and influencing presentation of new or counter-intuitive information. You will also commission and manage work delivery through contractors and, at times, in partnership with academia or Defra Group colleagues.The Evaluation TeamThe Evaluation Team is part of the Environment and Business Directorate’s Chief Scientist’s Group. We use evidence, expertise, engagement and innovation to enhance delivery, influence policy and legislation, and secure resources to protect the environment. We promote a positive, inclusive and supportive culture across a dispersed team working with technical and project teams nationwide.Experience & Skills RequiredYou will need an excellent knowledge of current approaches to evaluation. Understanding a broad range of evaluation methods, including qualitative, quantitative and quasi‑experimental techniques, will be essential. You should possess strong people skills (structured interviewing, workshop facilitation), ability to distil and present evidence‑based messages, and ideally specialist skills in economics, statistics or other research methods. Background in regulatory enforcement or knowledge of water regulation is a bonus. Exemplary project and contract management skills and line‑management experience are also expected.Contact & Additional InformationApplications are blind‑assessed. Interviews are planned in early January. If you consent to be held on a reserve list, we will hold your details for six months and may offer you an alternative post.Include your contact email and any preferred working arrangements on your application.For questions, contact jon.greaves@environment-agency.gov.uk.CompetenciesCompetence 1 – Scientific KnowledgeDescribe a time when you used evaluation to develop sound evidence that answered a stakeholder’s question or informed decision‑making. How did you approach the task, what methods did you use, and what was the outcome?Competence 2 – Influences and Persuades OthersDescribe a situation where you successfully persuaded a key stakeholder to follow your advice on a major project. What was the situation, how did you present your argument, and what contributed to your success?Competence 3 – Environmental AwarenessExplain the main issues for England’s water environment at present and how you came to that view. Demonstrate how you appreciate the impact of activities on the environment and identify ways to protect and preserve it.Competence 4 – Shapes Organisational Approach & DeliveryTell us about a time when you used evidence to challenge existing thinking in an organisation and how you made it heard. Was the change implemented and successful?Legal and MiscellaneousWe are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Flexible working patterns, job share and guaranteed interview policy for disabled applicants are welcomed. Eligible candidates should note that the Environment Agency is a Non‑Departmental Public Body and has specific employment status regarding continuous service.Artificial intelligence can support your application, but all statements must be truthful, factually accurate and your own experience. Plagiarism or fabricated content may lead to withdrawal of the application. #J-18808-Ljbffr