Water Witness International

Who we are

Water Witness is a leading force in the struggle for global water and climate justice. From our Headquarters in Edinburgh, we drive action, research, and advocacy for a future where all people can access the water they need to thrive, and are protected against floods, drought, pollution, ecosystem degradation and water conflict.

We stand with those at the sharp end of the water crisis to shine a light on its impacts, understand its root causes and to trigger action. We work with inspirational local partners to demand social justice and to unlock system change so that the world’s most precious resource is managed sustainably, equitably and in ways which build resilience to climate change.

Over the past 15 years our team have been at the frontline, working to improve water security for millions of vulnerable people, reform and implement policy and law, build new approaches, nurture communities of practice, and hold governments and corporations to account. Our hands-on field expertise is backed up by cutting-edge research and analysis, and this provides the knowledge and credibility needed to accelerate delivery of the water-related Sustainable Development Goals.

Our 2030 Strategy builds on our track record and sets out five imperatives for change which will unlock improved water resource governance and shared water security:

1.     Accountable governance: to implement effective and equitable water policy and law.

2.     Progressive financing: to unlock funding and financial incentives for water security.

3.     Redefining corporate responsibility: to transform private sector behaviour on water.

4.     Confronting climate chaos: to prevent catastrophic water shocks and build resilience.

5.     Activating people power: to trigger political, social and economic change for water security.

Our strategy is working. By sharing compelling evidence and helping communities to raise their voices, we are changing the way that governments, business, and banks think and act on water. 

Having secured significant new investment from a range of donors we are now seeking exceptional individuals with the skills, experience and vision needed to guide our next phase of delivery and impact.  Join us and lead the transition to a fair water future.

Our culture and values

Values and Behaviours Summary Description and Definitions

Summary Description

·         Team Working – Works effectively with others within own team and across the wider organisation to achieve results in the job, team goals and organisational objectives.

·         Relationships with Colleagues – Builds and maintains productive and harmonious working relationships within own team and across the wider organisation.

·         Relationships with Partners – Builds and maintains productive and harmonious working relationships with partners, recognising their strengths.

·         Communication – Effectively communicates appropriate information through a range of mechanisms to ensure clarity and understanding and achieve organisational objectives.

·         Commitment to Social Justice – Ensures that social justice is at the core of Water Witness’s work and is thought through and provides a meaningful core in all of our work.

·         Responsibility – Takes personal responsibility for your own decisions and development.

·         Commitment and Motivation –Demonstrates self-motivation and commitment towards achieving results and applying yourself in a positive manner to the work of the organisation.

·         Adaptability/Willingness to change – Understands need for appropriate change, willing to change working practices

·         Planning and Personal Organisation – Maximises efficiency, prioritising workload appropriately and focusing on the right areas to ensure the achievement of own/team and organisational objectives.

·         Building & Application of expertise – Develops and maintains a high level of job and professional knowledge/skills and using these to provide an excellent service and achieve organisational objectives.

·         Quality of outputs - Sets and keeps high professional and personal standards

·         Productivity/ Efficiency - Able to work alone and with others to deliver quality work in a timely way

·         Continuous Learning - Demonstrates commitment to continuous professional development and organisational learning.

·         Efficient use of Resources - Aims for optimal spend and value for money in Water Witness’s work

Problem Solving and Decision-Making – Analysing problems and evaluating options and risks to identify most appropriate solutions and taking effective action through sound judgement

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Equality, inclusion and diversity are at the core of Water Witness’ values. We are committed to equal opportunities for all, and to welcoming people from a wide diversity of abilities, cultures, and experience.