Our Stance on AI

Doing the right thing in the Application and Interview Process

At United Utilities, we’re proud to serve communities across the North West by delivering life’s essential service. To do this well, we rely on people who share our values - doing the right thing, working together, building trust, and creating a better future. These values guide everything we do, including how we recruit and welcome new colleagues.

We believe in fairness, transparency, and respect throughout the recruitment journey. That means we expect candidates to engage in the application and interview process with honesty and integrity. We want to get to know the real you - your skills, your experiences, and your aspirations.

Using AI During Your Application

We understand that AI tools are increasingly used to support job applications. While these tools can be helpful, it’s important that your application reflects your genuine capabilities and personal voice. Here’s how we expect candidates to use AI responsibly:

• Cover Letters: AI may help with grammar or structure, but your letter should be written in your own words and reflect your unique experiences and motivations.
• CVs and Applications: You may use AI to help articulate your experience, but the content must be accurate and truthful; we want to hear about you and your personal experience and stories.
• Interview Preparation: Using AI to stay informed or practice interview techniques is acceptable. However, your responses during interviews should be your own.
• Interviews: Whether in person or virtual, interviews are an opportunity for us to connect with you. We ask that you do not use AI to generate or assist with your responses during interviews. We also expect candidates to be present on camera during virtual interviews unless an accommodation has been agreed in advance.
• Technical Assessments: If AI tools are permitted as part of a technical assessment, we’ll make that clear. Otherwise, assessments should reflect your own skills and understanding.

Accessibility and Support

We’re committed to creating an inclusive recruitment experience. If you require any adjustments or support during the application or interview process, please let your recruiter know so we can make appropriate arrangements.

How We Use AI at United Utilities

At United Utilities, we use technology - including AI - to improve efficiency and enhance the candidate experience, but always with a human touch. For example:

• Drafting job descriptions and outreach messages
• Scheduling interviews and managing communications
• Supporting interviewers with relevant questions

AI helps us work smarter, but it never replaces the personal connection that’s central to our recruitment process.