Chandresh Varsani

Experienced professional in Strategy, Asset Management and Operations within large-scale water utilities. Proven expertise in developing and implementing data driven strategies that align with organizational objectives, ensuring optimal performance and compliance. Adept at translating corporate strategy into actionable operational plans, optimizing asset performance, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Possesses strong technical expertise in risk assessments, and asset management reporting, while driving continuous improvement and team development. Skilled in project management, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, with a strong focus on driving sustainable practices and minimizing environmental footprints.

Operational Excellence Programme Manager | Thames Water | 08/2023 – Present

• Developing and implementing strategic plans for the water asset portfolio, aligning operational initiatives with corporate objectives and ensuring compliance with group delegation policies.
• Conducting regular performance assessments, monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), identifying areas for improvement and coordinating risk mitigation strategies across water assets.
• Utilizing Lean Six Sigma methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping) to identify £1.8million inefficiencies and implement process improvements.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate innovative practices and emerging technologies into asset management strategies, such as solar, lighting, building materials, efficient drives and motors.
• Formulating a strategic five-year sustainability roadmap (1000tons CO2 removal) ensuring future projects are designed with environmental compliance, optimal resource allocation, and long-term impact in mind.
• Managing and supporting my team in preparing and presenting comprehensive management reports detailing progress, challenges, and recommendations to Exec team.
• Currently restructuring CAPEX delivery approach to ensure quicker and more affordable investments with higher ROI. 

Asset Management & Strategy | Thames Water | 11/2021 – 08/2023

• Designed and executed strategic asset management plans, ensuring alignment with long-term investment priorities, risk and regulatory requirements. Created a new template to assess and review KPIs at system levels, collaborating with multiple departments.
• Led workshops to develop an investment plan which focuses on reducing single points of failure to the London water system, which would ensure greater resilience and reduces supply interruption score to less than 4 hours.
• Engaged stakeholders and senior management to secure funding and approvals for critical infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with ISO 55000
• Led the strategic planning and performance analysis of water assets, ensuring alignment with long-term investment and regulatory requirements.
• Analysed market trends and industry best practices to refine asset management strategies and support decision-making processes.
• Developed and maintained asset management policies, procedures, and guidelines, resulting in enhanced operational efficiency and risk mitigation.
• Provided technical expertise in developing action plans based on regular asset performance reviews and risk assessments.

Technical Area Operations Manager | Thames Water | 03/2020 – 11/2021

• Managed operational teams (up to 20 headcount) to maintain regulatory compliance and optimize area performance, which meant zero water quality and supply interruption incidents.
• Addressed complex operational challenges and improve team performance, through mentoring and training activities. Ensured 3 apprentices passed their apprenticeship with distinction, which lead them to secure a permanent position.
• Oversaw daily operations ensuring strict adherence to water asset management policies, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
• Addressed complex operational challenges during COVID19 implementing new ways of working to ensure H&S requirements are met.

Project Lead | Thames Water | 02/2019 – 03/2020

• Project managed tunnel refurbishment programme, ensuring project delivered to time, budget and quality.
• Reviewing safe systems of work during planning phase and then carrying out audits during execution phase.
• Created clear communication channels to ensure all project members and stakeholders are informed in a timely manner with appropriate information.
• Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams and external partners to implement innovative solutions and maintain high asset performance standards.
• Delivered periodic progress and management reports, facilitating informed decision-making at the senior management level.

Performance Manager | Thames Water | 09/2017 – 02/2019

• Directed teams to meet operational targets with an emphasis on sustainable practices, including effluent quality, emissions reduction, and energy efficiency. 
• Managed budgets and introduced cost-saving measures to enhance financial efficiency. 
• Oversaw budget management and introduced cost-saving initiatives that reinforced financial discipline while advancing environmental objectives. 
• Led training and talent development initiatives, building a cohesive team dedicated to continuous improvement and technical excellence.

Store Manager | Varsani Wines | 09/2012 – 09/2017

• Managed all aspects of store operations, focusing on efficiency and profitability by increase revenue by £1millon and reducing costs by 5%, thus improving P&L. Negotiated vendor contracts to optimize inventory and reduce costs. 
• Delivered exceptional customer service through building customer rapport and formed a high-performing team.

Queen Mary University of London | 09/2012 – 08/2015

BSc (Hons) Environmental Science with Business Management (2:1)