Location
Staffordshire

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£51,928 per annum

About the Role
Do you want to lead the future of one of England's most treasured protected landscapes? Cannock Chase National Landscape is a remarkable mosaic of heathland, forest and farmland at the heart of the Midlands. We are seeking an exceptional leader to champion its conservation, enhancement and long-term sustainability. Drawing together local authorities, statutory agencies, environmental organisations, businesses and communities, you will inspire partnership action to protect this nationally important landscape for future generations.

As Team Leader, you will provide strategic leadership for a skilled multidisciplinary team, oversee delivery of the National Landscape Management Plan, manage budgets and programmes, secure new funding opportunities, and represent Cannock Chase at regional and national levels. You will play a pivotal role in shaping policy, supporting sustainable land management, improving visitor experiences, and strengthening connections with local communities and businesses.

Some of the key tasks and responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic overview of the AONB programme and business plan, liaising with Defra and partners, and commissioning contracts to achieve delivery under the Partnership's guidance.
- Line management of AONB staff including performance, development and wellbeing in accordance with Council policies.
- Overseeing team delivery across planning and development, land management, farming liaison and communications.
- Enabling the Partnership to meet statutory requirements by coordinating review and implementation of the AONB Management Plan and associated evidence base.
- Business planning and operational management of the partnership budget in association with the SCC Treasurer and according to financial regulations.
- Leading development work to increase financial sustainability, broadening the funding base and securing additional funds including development of a charitable body.
- Leading visitor management initiatives to enhance visitor experience and manage impacts.
- Developing positive links with businesses and communities to further partnership work.
- Supporting the AONB Joint Committee and Officers Working Group by coordinating meetings and providing updates.
- Representing Cannock Chase nationally by contributing to meetings and work programmes within the family of AONBs and protected landscapes.
- Contributing to national policy development through consultation responses and sharing expertise to enable learning from other protected landscapes and initiatives.

This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting difference to a nationally significant landscape while leading an ambitious partnership committed to nature, people and place.

Experience
- Significant experience working in the environment or countryside sector with a sound understanding of UK policy and practice relating to protected landscapes.
- Proven track record of success in project and programme management, and fundraising within the environment sector.
- Experience of financial management, procurement processes and contract management.
- Experience working in a partnership environment with the ability to persuade, influence and promote new ideas and methods.
- Experience of performance management and staff development.

About you
- Motivated and collaborative professional with strong leadership and programme management skills.
- Ability to efficiently access areas not served by public transport; use of own vehicle is expected.

Qualifications
- Degree level qualification or equivalent in a relevant environmental discipline.