Location
Central London with flexibility to work from any Forestry England office across the country. Hybrid working from home is supported. The role requires regular travel across England to locations including the Lake District, Kielder Forest, North York Moors, Peak District, south-east England, New Forest, Purbeck, Forest of Dean and Dartmoor. Some travel to remote locations not accessible by public transport is required.

Hours
37 hours per week

Salary
£40,388 - £43,482 per annum

About the Role
Forestry England’s Forest Wilding Programme, launched in 2022, aims to restore naturally functioning ecosystems across the Nation’s Forests. A key part of this is an ambitious initiative to recover priority influential species such as beaver, wildcat, pine marten, white-tailed eagle and wood ants, primarily through conservation translocation projects. With over 30 projects underway across England, including feasibility studies and reintroductions, this role leads the delivery and development of these species recovery projects.

As Species Recovery Manager, you will provide strong technical leadership and managerial skills to ensure effective project delivery, develop new species recovery initiatives, and maintain high standards of programme and project management. You will manage a delegated budget of around £2 million and build strong relationships with internal teams and external partners including Wildlife Trusts, Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, Vincent Wildlife Trust and Natural England. This is a fast-paced, high-impact role at the forefront of nature recovery efforts in England, working for the country’s largest land manager.

The role requires regular travel across England and occasional travel within the UK. A full and current UK driving licence is essential, and willingness to stay away from home is required. Forestry England is open to considering alternative proposals to enable applicants to fulfil the role effectively.

Experience
Proven experience in species recovery, nature-focused land management or related conservation projects. Strong programme and project management skills with experience managing significant budgets. Demonstrated ability to lead multi-stakeholder initiatives and deliver projects on time and within budget.

About you
Inspirational leader with excellent managerial and communication skills. Able to develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Motivated by nature recovery and conservation goals. Willingness to travel regularly across England and occasionally within the UK. Holds a full and current UK driving licence and is willing to stay away from home as required.

Qualifications
Relevant technical qualifications or demonstrable expertise in species recovery, ecology, conservation biology or related disciplines are desirable but not explicitly stated. Commitment to continuous professional development and adherence to high standards in conservation practice.

Benefits
Range of excellent benefits available.