Overview

We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Lead Ecologist to lead and deliver ecological services across a range of projects throughout the UK. This role requires a strong combination of technical expertise, team leadership, project management, and strategic input to help grow and strengthen our environmental offering. The successful candidate will play a critical role in delivering high-quality ecological assessments, managing stakeholder relationships, and mentoring junior team members, while supporting the Company’s environmental objectives and standards.

About us

As an industry leader, Euroforest is dedicated to providing the highest level of service for forest owners across UK and Ireland. We pride ourselves on our commitment to quality, sustainability and long-term partnerships.

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Key Responsibilities

The role can be divided into the following key responsibilities, but it is not limited to:

–         Leading and developing a high-performing ecology team, driving skills growth, innovation and service excellence

–         Managing budgets, resources and project delivery across a range of ecological services aligned with business goals

–         Delivering and reviewing technical surveys, assessments and reports (habitats, protected species, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals – PEAs, Ecological Impact Assessments-ECIAs, Habitats Regulations Assessments – HRAs), ensuring regulatory compliance

–         Securing ecological licences in line with legislation and best practice

–         Building strong stakeholder relationships, providing expert guidance and legislative updates

–         Identifying and developing new ecological business opportunities, contributing to business growth

–         Collaborating with forestry management and harvesting teams to support sustainable practices

–         Championing Company’s environmental standards and ensuring alignment across projects

Training and support will be provided to introduce the successful applicant to Company systems and procedures.

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‍Qualification & Experience

–         Relevant academic qualifications in ecology, environment, land use or other related discipline

–         Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), at Charted Ecologist (Cecol) level or equivalent professional body with professional code of conduct

–         CSCS Card

–         European Protected Species / Conservation licence(s)

–         Proven experience in a senior ecological consultancy or similar role

–         Strong commercial acumen, with proven experience of bid management

–         In-depth knowledge of current UK legislation, policy and best practice

–         Proven experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion; including procurement, budget control, managing other ecological disciplines and sub-contractors, programming work and meeting project objectives

–         Proven experience of delivering and coordinating ecological surveys (habitats, protected species, birds, reptile)

–         Experience in report writing (including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, management plans and Ecological Impact Assessments) and development of mitigation measures

–         Experience of forestry management, timber harvesting and de-vegetation environment is desirable (but not essential)

–         Experience in working in multi-disciplined teams, providing technical and non-technical advice

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Skills

–         Strong leadership and team management skills

–         Proven business acumen, and a desire to support business development

–         Diligent and professional in your approach to work

–         Self-motivated to deliver a high-quality service to clients and internal teams

–         Strong stakeholder engagement skills

–         Organisational, communication and planning skills

–         Motivational and negotiating skills

–         Proficiency with IT systems, with experience of Office 365 suite

–         Full UK Drivers Licence and willingness to travel

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Benefits

–         Competitive Salary

–         28 days holiday (including Bank Holidays)

–         Annual leave increases with length of service

–         Company Holidays (3 days at Christmas)

–         Company vehicle (business and privateuse)

–         Pension scheme

–         Continuous Professional Development

–         Cycle to work Scheme

–         Long service awards

 

To apply send your CV and Cover Letter to recruitment@euroforest.co.uk quoting reference EFLE/2506

 

Closing date for applications is: 30th June 2025

Start date will be as soon as possible after interviews (notice periods allowing).

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Euroforest is an Equal Opportunities Employer. The company is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, gender, or sexual orientation.

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