Head of Ecology

NSB Recruitment have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Ecology to join a highly respected regional planning consultancy at a pivotal moment in its growth. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Ecologist to shape the future of the business and make a significant impact. There is a clear pathway to a position on the company board which also offers equity.

My client is looking for a motivated and ambitious individual to lead, manage, and expand their existing Ecology team. The successful candidate will provide technical and legislative guidance across the current project portfolio, while also cultivating new relationships and expanding the client base across multiple sectors.

As Head of Ecology, you will bring a proven track record in procuring, managing, and delivering projects across diverse ecological disciplines. You will play an active role in developing new opportunities and overseeing the successful delivery of projects, supported by the existing team and through the recruitment of additional talent.

Location – Birmingham or Nottingham. Other locations considered with flexible working arrangements available.

The ideal candidate will be solution-oriented, with a commitment to technical excellence and a passion for driving results. As the leader of the Ecology department, you will inspire and guide the team, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and that they consistently provide added value to clients—all while fostering a positive, collaborative company culture.

There will be a number of core skills required for the role which will focus on business strategy and development, client relationship management, project delivery, knowledge management and people development.

• Leadership skills – providing clear and targeted direction and mentoring to staff of all levels, developing individuals to provide growth both professionally and on a personal level
• Efficient team management – through delegation, recruitment, resolves and highlights areas for improvement
• Comprehensive technical knowledge – a broad base of knowledge supported through the production of EcIAs, Ecology Chapters, Ecological Appraisals
• Problem solving and lateral thinking – solution led thinking, where possible adding value, planning ahead and risk managing both on behalf of my client and their valued client base
• Relationship building – both internally and externally, developing a team environment that strives for excellence in all they do and on behalf of their clients. Forging relationships across a range of sectors through networking, industry events, seminars and via actively promoting company profile to new potential clients and supply chain
• Project management – proven track record of managing and overseeing the delivery of large complex schemes which cover a range of protected species and environmental legislation considerations
• Procurement and budget management – ensuring monthly invoicing targets are achieved and compiling/meeting annual departmental budgets

Ideally You Will Have The Following

• Upwards of eight years ecology experience and having worked at top level Associate or Technical Lead level
• Technical input into and peer review of a range of ecological reports
• Recruitment of new staff and development of the existing team.
• Strategic, adaptive, problem solving
• A comprehensive knowledge of protected species legislation and licensing requirements inclusive of license applications
• Scheduling and resourcing to achieve monthly targets
• Excellent communication and instructive skills
• Excellent well rounded field survey skills including botany and habitat classification
• Outstanding organisational skills and the ability to prioritise individually and at a team level
• Strong interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
• A passion for ecology and species conservation

Preferred Professional Accreditations

• Level 2 Bat License & GCN License(s)
• Full CIEEM Membership and preferably working toward Chartered status
• Full clean driving license
• Honours or Master’s degree in Ecology or relevant discipline

Rewards & Benefits

• Competitive salary depending on experience, plus bonus.
• Optional company car or car allowance
• Company pension & Private medical insurance.

This is an exceptional opportunity to join an ambitious business with significant growth plans ahead. My client offers a lot of training as well as great scope for progression and reward. You will have significant input into the growth and development of the business.

Even if you are cautiously looking, I would recommend a discreet conversation to find out more about the firm and the role.

If this Head of Ecology role is of interest, click apply below.