Location
Nearest Natural Resources Wales office to your home with a suitable hybrid working pattern agreed on appointment.

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£52,770 per annum

About the Role
Are you passionate about shaping the future of Wales' woodlands? We are seeking an inspiring expert to lead woodland creation, management, and restoration across Wales. In this pivotal role, you will drive the development of NRW policy, programmes, strategies, and guidance—turning Welsh and UK Government ambitions into practical, effective action on the ground.
You will collaborate closely with colleagues across directorates, work directly with Welsh Government officials, and engage with key partners across the forestry and environmental sectors. This role offers flexible working arrangements and supports hybrid working, with any regular face-to-face meetings or training planned in advance.
The Woodland Programme Team plays a key role in delivering Wales's woodland ambitions, supporting nature recovery, climate resilience, and sustainable timber production. Working on behalf of the Welsh Government, the team ensures woodland creation, management, and restoration projects meet high environmental and forestry standards.
Key responsibilities include leading and managing complex projects and policy development, providing statutory advice to government bodies, commissioning and managing evidence projects, maintaining detailed knowledge of woodland creation and restoration, and contributing to task and finish groups. You will also steer engagement with Welsh Government on woodland-related policy areas and undertake health and safety duties appropriate to the role.
Natural Resources Wales is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, supporting professional development and wellbeing, and fostering a bilingual working environment.

Experience
- Knowledge and understanding of Welsh, UK, and EU legislation related to woodland creation, management, and restoration.
- Understanding of Welsh, UK Governments and EU policy drivers in woodland creation and restoration implementation.
- Experience informing and influencing government departments, preferably on environmental issues.
- Experience working at pace with a proven track record of delivery.
- Experience representing organisations in high-profile and contentious public issues.
- Knowledge of partners and stakeholders involved in woodland creation and management in Wales and the UK.

About you
- Innovative and driven to achieve targets.
- Committed to equal opportunities and diversity.
- Willing to engage in personal development through a structured plan.
- Ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders.
- Welsh language ability at Level A1 (entry level) or willingness to learn and improve Welsh language skills during employment.

Qualifications
- Degree in a relevant subject or equivalent relevant experience.