Overview
Northumberland National Park is a landscape of remarkable natural beauty, where rolling hills, tranquil valleys, and vast skies meet a rich tapestry of history and heritage. Shaped by both the power of nature and thousands of years of human story, it offers a magnificent opportunity to explore, reflect and connect deeply with nature.
As a National Park, we deliver significant economic and social value to our region and its people through a combination of direct investment and tourism, farming and local enterprise. Approximately six million people live within an hour’s drive of the Park and can share its benefits, alongside the many who visit us from much farther afield.
We are an ambitious organisation, with a strong track record in delivering for climate, nature, people, and place. What we do addresses directly many of the big challenges facing our nation and our rural communities and so we are continually striving to achieve more.
It is a pivotal and exciting time for you to consider joining us as our Chief Executive. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in public interest in our natural environments, with more people choosing to spend their leisure time closer to home. This has brought renewed attention to the value of National Parks and the vital role they play in society and the economy. However, increased demand also brings new pressures. As Chief Executive, you will need to balance the needs of residents, visitors, and businesses, while navigating a complex funding landscape and responding to the climate and nature emergencies—all while leading a talented and committed team.
Our next Chief Executive will need to be able to lead with credibility and confidence across the Authority’s diverse network of partners and stakeholders. Facing both local and national audiences, you will need to bring a genuine passion for the organisation, the landscape, and its people. This role demands strategic leadership, emotional intelligence, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing protected landscapes today.
If you believe you can lead us towards our vision, whilst living our values and supporting our culture, we very much look forward to hearing from you.
Responsibilities
The Chief Executive will lead the organisation, balance the needs of residents, visitors, and businesses, and navigate a complex funding landscape while responding to climate and nature emergencies. The role requires strategic leadership, senior stakeholder engagement, and the ability to lead a talented team to deliver on the Park’s priorities.
Qualifications
Demonstrated experience in strategic leadership of a complex organisation, strong emotional intelligence, credibility with diverse partners and stakeholders, and a genuine passion for the landscape, its people and the organisation.
How to apply
For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact our recruitment advisers:
* Marnie Lodhi – marnie.lodhi@gatenbysanderson.com
* Julie Myers – julie.myers@gatenbysanderson.com
* Michelle Atkinson – michelle.atkinson@gatenbysanderson.com
The closing date for applications is 9am Monday 17 November 2025
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