Location
Central London, covering the East District which spans from Norfolk down to the Kent and Sussex coast, including Visitor Centres at Bedgebury, the Chilterns, and near Thetford.

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week

Salary
£48,765 - £52,557 per annum

About the Role
Join Forestry England, a passionate team dedicated to growing the nation’s forests for everyone. As Head of Recreation and Public Affairs, you will lead the development and enhancement of visitor experiences across the East District. This role involves managing and improving the offer at key Visitor Centres and ensuring the forests provide amazing places for people to enjoy. You will play a vital part in adapting landscapes for the future, supporting wildlife habitats, improving air quality, and promoting sustainable timber production. You will work collaboratively with professionals and experts who share a commitment to making a positive difference for the environment and communities.

Benefits
Forestry England contributes an average of 28.97% towards your pension through the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. You will receive 25 days holiday per year, increasing by one day per year of service up to 30 days (pro-rated for part-time employees), plus bank holidays. Access to the STaR employee benefits scheme offers discounts on supermarket shopping, holidays, gym memberships, insurance, and more. Free parking at Forestry England sites and free entry to National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury are included. Forestry England supports lifelong learning and career development through professional development opportunities, individual learning plans, and sponsored membership of professional bodies.

Experience
Proven experience in leadership roles, managing public affairs or recreation services, ideally within environmental, forestry, or related sectors. Demonstrable ability to lead teams and deliver high-quality visitor experiences across multiple sites.

About you
Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate others. Excellent communication and influencing skills. Ability to manage change and improve services while delivering results at pace. Commitment to quality service management and a passion for the environment and public engagement. You will be adaptable, proactive, and able to work collaboratively across diverse teams and stakeholders.

Qualifications
Relevant professional qualifications or equivalent experience in recreation management, public affairs, environmental management, or related fields are desirable. Commitment to continual professional development and learning.

Additional Information
Successful candidates will undergo a criminal record check and government baseline personnel security standard check. Forestry England is an equal opportunity employer and part of the Civil Service Disability Confident Scheme, guaranteeing interviews to candidates with disabilities who meet minimum criteria. Reasonable adjustments are available upon request. The recruitment process is based on fair and open competition and merit.