AMP 8: Addressing the Skills Shortage in the Water Industry
Posted on 5th March 2025 at 16:20
As we edge closer to April 2025, the water industry is bracing for the launch of Asset Management Period 8 (AMP 8). With an unprecedented £98 billion investment, AMP 8 is set to tackle critical challenges such as pollution control, climate resilience, and ageing infrastructure. However, the success of this ambitious regulatory cycle hinges on one key factor people.
The water industry faces a two-fold challenge. On the surface, there’s an urgent need to meet environmental and operational targets. Beneath that lies a deeper issue—the escalating skills shortage. With 27% of the workforce set to retire in the next decade and a growing demand for technical expertise, the sector must act decisively to secure its talent pipeline.
Pollution control remains a top priority, with water companies tasked with addressing root causes and improving response and recovery times. This requires collaboration with agricultural, urban, and transport sectors, as well as the adoption of cost-effective technologies under the BATNEEC (Best Available Technology Not Exceeding Excessive Cost) principle.
Additionally, regional specificity and data-driven approaches are becoming crucial. Real-time monitoring, sustainable infrastructure, and digital transformation are all necessary to address the growing demands of a rising population, rapid urban development, and climate change impacts.
But achieving these goals comes with a hefty price tag. With consumers already feeling the financial squeeze, passing costs onto customers isn’t feasible. Instead, the industry must innovate, adopting sustainable solutions that deliver long-term savings.
The Hidden Challenge: The Skills Shortage
An ageing workforce: Less than 8% of the sector is under 24, while 63% have over 10 years of experience. Succession planning is critical to bridging this gap.
Competition for talent: The water industry must compete with sectors like technology and renewable energy, which are often perceived as more progressive.
Digital transformation: AMP 8’s emphasis on data and innovation requires tech-savvy professionals, a skill set currently scarce in the sector.
At AMB Recruitment Group, we understand the critical role people play in the success of AMP 8. Our expertise in construction and technical recruitment, combined with our Military Talent Solutions, positions us as a key partner for water companies looking to overcome their workforce challenges.
Here’s how AMB can help:
Ex-Military Talent: Every year, 12,000–16,000 skilled individuals leave the armed forces, bringing with them transferable skills, discipline, and problem-solving capabilities. AMB’s Military Talent Solutions bridges the gap between military and civilian careers, providing water companies with a steady stream of multi-disciplined engineers and technical professionals.
Diverse Recruitment: We actively recruit from a variety of sectors, ensuring a fresh perspective and innovative approaches to problem-solving.
Tailored Support: From apprenticeships to senior roles, we focus on finding the right fit for both clients and candidates, ensuring long-term success.
To attract and retain the talent needed to meet AMP 8’s ambitious goals, the water industry must rethink its approach to recruitment and workforce planning.
Key strategies include:
1. Technology and Innovation: Highlighting digital transformation projects to attract tech-savvy professionals.
2. Industry Promotion: Improving public perception through targeted marketing campaigns and showcasing the sector’s role in sustainability.
3. Employee Value Proposition: Offering competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and clear career progression pathways.
Why the Water Industry Needs to Act Now
The water sector is at a crossroads. With AMP 8 marking the final regulatory cycle before the UK’s 2030 net-zero target, the stakes have never been higher. Yet, the industry’s ability to deliver on its promises depends on its workforce. AMB Recruitment Group is proud to support the water industry in building a skilled, resilient workforce ready to tackle the challenges of AMP 8.
By focusing on innovation, inclusion, and sustainability, we help our clients not only meet their goals but also build a better future for the communities they serve.
Speak to Andrew Booth, Sales Director at AMB Recruitment Group, to explore how we can support your workforce needs for AMP 8.
Contact us today on 01928 240 408 to start building a team that will drive your success.
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