Head of Environmental and Permitting – Imerys Minerals Ltd – Cornwall

Imerys British Lithium (‘IBL’) represents a pioneering collaboration between Imerys and British Lithium, aimed at leading the charge in Europe's commercial production of battery-grade lithium carbonate. This partnership leverages British Lithium's innovative approach to sustainable mineral extraction and Imerys' extensive experience in mineral solutions. Together, they are set to significantly influence the UK's and Europe's transition to renewable energy, playing a key role in achieving climate change objectives and developing the regional electrical vehicle value chain.

The Role

IBL is currently engaged in a pre-feasibility study for the development of a mine, concentration and conversion plants to produce lithium carbonate from lithium-bearing granite ore. Total expected development cost and capex is expected to be around £1bn.

In this newly created role, reporting to the Project Director, you will be responsible for defining and implementing the environmental and permitting strategy for the British Lithium Project, ensuring that the project meets the very highest of environmental standards.

You will:

• Define and implement the environmental and permitting strategy, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.


• Coordinate the necessary documentation and assessments and manage consultants and technical studies.


• Act as the project’s spokesperson on environmental issues, maintaining alignment with project timelines and budgets.


• Conduct environmental impact and risk assessments, establishing mitigation measures.


• Lead meetings and workshops with project stakeholders on environmental and permitting topics.

This role would suit a highly organised and detail-oriented individual with a strong background in environmental science, engineering, or a related field.

The ideal candidate should have:

• Extensive experience in environmental planning, permitting, and regulatory compliance, particularly within the chemical, mining or heavy industry sectors.


• Strong project management skills, with the ability to coordinate complex, multi-disciplinary projects and manage diverse teams.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, essential for interacting with regulatory bodies, legal services, community groups and public officials.


• Proactive and strategic thinking, capable of leading initiatives to meet environmental standards.


• Ability to conduct and review technical studies, manage budgets and schedules, and navigate administrative procedures.

• Educational Background: Well-educated or qualified by experience in environmental science/engineering, general engineering, geology, or a similar field.


• Professional Experience: Demonstrated competence and significant experience in an environmental consulting firm, design office, or industry (chemical or mining preferred).


• Specific Expertise: Experience in environmental management of industrial projects, knowledge of UK environmental regulations and authorisations, and familiarity with mining-related legislation.


• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of environmental engineering/industrial processes such as treatment of emissions into water or air, and experience in time-sensitive project environments with milestones and deliverables.


• Core Competencies: Excellent project management skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills, adept at conducting and reviewing technical studies, proactive and strategic thinking, and the ability to lead a team without direct supervision.

This role is based in Cornwall and requires occasional business travel. The successful candidate will receive an attractive salary plus car allowance and a significant bonus, along with additional benefits. Relocation assistance is available for the successful candidate.

How to Apply

For an informal, confidential discussion, please contact:

Colin Roope

Associate Partner - Manufacturing and Engineering Practice

T: +44 (0) 203 7442023

M: +44 (0) 7989 410186

E: colin.roope@berwickpartners.co.uk