Ofwat is the economic regulator of the water sector in England and Wales. Water companies support all aspects of life. Safe and reliable water and wastewater services are essential for our day to day lives, our wellbeing, and our natural world.
Our role is to enable, incentivise and hold companies to account for providing the very best for customers, society and the environment now and in the future. We also oversee the markets that exist in the water sector to make sure they are working for customers.
To achieve this, we have three goals. They are to:
• transform water companies’ performance;• drive water companies to meet long-term challenges through increased collaboration and partnerships;and
• for water companies to provide greater social and environmental value.
Delivering these goals will help to meet customers’ needs: ensure reliable and safe water supplies today with a better environment, affordable bills and a resilient and sustainable future for water. It matters to us that things on the ground really change so that our impact on customers, the environment and the future of water is tangible and meaningful.
In undertaking our role, we work to fulfil the UK and Welsh Governments’ strategic priorities for Ofwat, and UK and Welsh Government policy. We work alongside other regulators for the water sector, in particular the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales and the Drinking Water Inspectorate. We also work closely with other economic regulators under the auspices of the UK Regulators Network.
Our work is high-profile and fast-moving, within a dynamic and agile environment. We are forward-thinking, creative, innovative and ambitious. We constantly push the boundaries and embrace new ways of working. We actively encourage autonomy, collaboration and innovation and our culture fosters trust, flexibility and respect.
Why Ofwat is supporting Boardroom Apprentice
We know that securing the experience and skills needed to contribute successfully in the boardroom is challenging, particularly for those seeking to take that step for the first time. The Boardroom Apprentice pilot provides an exceptional opportunity to provide a first hand insight, alongside mentoring support.
Location of Board and Committee Meetings
Meetings are in either London or Birmingham, usually in person though hybrid attendance is possible
Frequency and timing of board/committee meetings
Board meetings are held monthly, save in August. Meetings take place during the day usually from 0930 – 1400 or later in the afternoon depending on the matters on the agenda.
Date of Board Meetings (January 2024 – December 2024)
It is possible that some of these dates will change and additional meetings added next year as we undertake our price review decisions. The confirmed principal Board dates in 2024 are as follows: 25 January;21/22 February;20 March;25 April;23 May;27/28 June;25 July;26 September;24 October;27/28 November;and 18 December
Committee of the Boards and meeting dates (January 2023 – December 2023)
Given that we have 11 Board meetings a year, we expect that the focus should be on the main board. We will provide the opportunity to observe an Audit and Risk Assurance Committee meeting and a People Committee meeting on which we have other standing observers under another scheme under the auspices of the UKRN. We also have a Major Projects Committee and Casework Committee.
