The job itself
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Principal Engineer to lead the service covering strategic flood and coastal risk management (FCRM) at the East Riding of Yorkshire Council. As part of the Council's Asset Strategy service, you will oversee the Authority's duties, responsibilities and functions as both Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) and Coast Protection Authority.
Your role involves management of the Flood Risk Strategy team, that is involved with all aspects of FCRM. The team prepares and monitors a range of local flood and coastal erosion strategies and policies, including the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, Flood Risk Management Plans and local technical FCRM studies. The team leads on working with partners on local and regional flood strategy including the emerging Humber 2100+ Strategy.
The team directs asset management and investment on an extensive network of flood and coastal risk management (FCRM) assets. From around 10km of coastal defence through to a suite of surface water reservoirs. As strategic lead for flood and coastal erosion risk management, the Principal Engineer will direct maintenance functions and act as budget holder across a significantly sized revenue and capital programme.
Having invested over £100m in FCRM since 2015, the team has a strong track record of managing a large flood and coastal risk capital investment programme. With secured funding of £15m at present, the Principal Engineer will oversee the delivery of the current capital programme, managing funding from a range of sources. The team also develops a pipeline programme of capital works working with partners which is informed by proactive investment planning.
The team works closely with other flood risk management authorities including the Environment Agency, Internal Drainage Boards, neighbouring Local Authorities and Yorkshire Water.
The successful candidate will:
lead the flood risk strategy team to ensure the Council fulfils its strategic ambitions, duties and responsibilities in flood and coastal risk management;
manage an extensive capital programme of flood alleviation schemes including preparation of funding bids and business cases, and liaising and negotiating with funders, partners and stakeholders;
ensure that policies and plans are implemented to achieve successful flood and coastal risk management outcomes for residents and businesses both in the short, medium and long term;
represent the Council as the lead strategic officer for the LLFA at corporate, regional and national forums, which includes duties such as supporting senior elected members on boards;
deliver value for money on local flood and coastal risk management revenue and capital spending; and
Maximise the use of partnerships and external investment opportunities to deliver multi-benefit outcomes in the East Riding