Regulatory Economics Graduate at Southern Water · Brighton

Closing Date 2026-09-01 Our Placement Year Programme provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience across a range of economic regulation disciplines within the water industry. During your 12-month placement, you'll undertake structured rotations across our Economics, Charging and Regulatory Reporting teams, giving you exposure to the breadth of activities undertaken by our Economic Regulation function.

The programme is designed to develop your understanding of how economic regulation shapes investment, customer outcomes and business decision-making. You'll work alongside experienced professionals on real projects, whilst developing analytical, communication, teamwork and project management skills.

Alongside on-the-job experience, you'll receive technical training and development opportunities to help you build the knowledge and skills needed for a future career in economic regulation, economics, finance or the wider utilities sector.

Key Responsibilities

As a Placement Year Student, you'll support a variety of projects and activities across the Economic Regulation team. Your responsibilities may include:

• Supporting the application of economic principles and regulatory frameworks to business challenges and decision-making.
• Assisting with the preparation and drafting of regulatory submissions to Ofwat and other stakeholders.
• Undertaking research, data analysis and modelling to help understand the drivers of water and wastewater costs and performance.
• Supporting the production and assurance of information submitted to regulators, helping to ensure it is accurate, complete and high quality.
• Working collaboratively with teams across the business to gather information and develop evidence-based recommendations.
• Assisting with the development of customer charges, tariffs and supporting analysis.
• Supporting projects that explore regulatory developments and opportunities to improve outcomes for customers.
• Preparing presentations, reports and briefing materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the Economic Regulation function.

What You'll Gain

By the end of the placement, you'll have developed:

• A broad understanding of economic regulation within the water industry.
• Experience working across the Economics, Charging and Regulatory Reporting teams.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Practical experience of regulatory reporting, charging and economic analysis.
• Exposure to business-critical projects and senior stakeholders.
• Enhanced teamwork, leadership and project management capabilities.

This placement offers an excellent opportunity to gain valuable industry experience, make a meaningful contribution to an essential public service and build a strong foundation for your future career.