Overview

At Sylvan, everything we do is driven by one ambition: to achieve more for nature than anyone thought possible. That belief shapes how we work. We’re a small, director-led biodiversity consultancy built on three pillars: real, lasting gains for Biodiversity, a supportive Community of colleagues and trusted partners, and the Finance to stay stable and reinvest in nature. In practice, that means giving pragmatic, reliable and personable advice to our clients who trust us, on work that matters, from major UK and international infrastructure to corporate biodiversity strategy and species conservation. If you want your expertise to make a measurable difference, and to be part of a team where your voice shapes what we become, we’d love to hear from you.

The Role

As Sylvan grows, we’re looking for an exceptional person to join our team and keep our projects and client commitments running smoothly. You’ll work closely with our directors, helping them deliver their work and providing hands-on administrative and technical support. We care more about who you are than your CV: you might already be an ecologist or biodiversity consultant, or you might be a highly organised, proactive generalist who’s eager to learn. Either way, you’ll be self-motivated, confident working independently, and genuinely keen to do good for nature. Full training and mentoring will be provided, as required.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Coordinate and manage Sylvan’s smaller projects from start to finish, keeping them on time, on budget and to a high standard
  • Support directors in delivering larger UK and international projects, from research and data handling to report drafting and quality checks
  • Prepare clear, high-quality proposals and fee quotes quickly and efficiently
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as a friendly and reliable first point of contact
  • Help with business development, marketing and keeping our website and social media up to date
  • Develop your ecological knowledge and skills, with opportunities to join site work and fieldwork as you grow

About You

  • Passionate about nature and making a positive difference
  • Exceptionally well organised, with excellent time management and attention to detail
  • A confident self-starter who takes ownership and works well without close supervision
  • A clear, professional communicator in writing and in person
  • Hard-working, adaptable and happy to turn your hand to whatever needs doing
  • Knowledge of UK ecology or the planning system is beneficial but not essential

What We Offer

A competitive salary based on skills and experience, entry into the annual profit-sharing scheme and pension. You’ll be trusted to enjoy unlimited annual leave and genuinely flexible, home-based working informed by both your life and Sylvan’s commitments. We invest in training and professional development, encourage time spent supporting other organisations, and offer opportunities for UK and international travel. Above all, you’ll join a small, friendly team doing meaningful work for nature.

 

To apply, please send your CV (2 sides is more than enough) and a short covering letter or email explaining why you think you would be a great fit to tom.mcarthur@sylvan-biodiversity.com

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