Location
Based in Sherwood NG21 9JL (Nottinghamshire), Delamere CW8 2HZ (Cheshire) or Cannock WS15 2UQ (West Midlands). This is a district-wide role covering an area from Milton Keynes in the South, to Hull in the East and the Mersey Belt in the North West.

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week

Salary
£40,388 - £43,482 per annum

About the Role
As Recreation and Public Affairs Manager, you will play a key role in the district’s Recreation and Public Affairs leadership team, helping to connect more people with the nation’s forests while delivering sustainable finances. A major part of your role will be overseeing the operation and development of at least two main forest centres, where millions of visitors experience nature each year. You will ensure exceptional customer experiences, maintain high service standards and create memorable outdoor adventures, while maximising income and contributing to the long-term sustainability of Forestry England’s wider work.
You will lead district-wide recreation programmes, provide technical expertise, drive compliance and best practice, identify opportunities for income growth, oversee key projects, support and develop managers, help teams manage visitor pressures, and represent the district at local, national and organisational forums.
Forestry England is a passionate team dedicated to growing the nation’s forests for everyone, adapting landscapes for tomorrow, and creating amazing places and experiences today. This role offers the opportunity to be part of that mission, delivering vital benefits for wildlife, cleaner air, and sustainable timber production.

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 for each year of service up to 30 days (pro-rated for part-time employees), plus bank holidays. Additional benefits include an employee discount scheme, free parking at Forestry England sites, free entry to National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury, and a commitment to lifelong learning through career development support including professional development and sponsored membership of professional bodies.

Experience
Proven experience in managing recreation or public affairs programmes, ideally within a natural environment or public sector setting. Experience in leading teams, managing visitor services, and delivering high standards of customer experience is essential. Demonstrable ability to manage projects, drive income growth, and ensure compliance with relevant policies and best practices.

About you
You are a motivated and passionate leader with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You thrive in a dynamic environment and are committed to delivering outstanding visitor experiences while balancing operational and financial objectives. You have the ability to work collaboratively across teams and represent the organisation effectively at various forums. A strong commitment to environmental sustainability and public engagement is essential.

Qualifications
There are no specific qualification requirements stated; however, relevant professional qualifications or experience in recreation management, public affairs, or a related field will be advantageous. You must have the ability to communicate effectively in accurate spoken English as required by the role.