Your new company My client is a rapidly growing environmental consultancy operating across the UK, with a clear purpose of enabling nature and business to thrive together. They are known for their pragmatic, innovative approach and for delivering high-quality environmental services across a wide range of sectors. With offices nationwide, their teams work across terrestrial and freshwater ecology, hydrology, arboriculture, GIS and mapping, marine laboratory services, and environmental impact assessment. The organisation places strong emphasis on technical excellence, collaboration, and creating an environment where people are supported to perform at their best. Your new role As a Senior Ecological Consultant, you will play a pivotal role in leading and delivering complex ecological projects, while supporting the commercial success of the team. The position is based in the East/Southeast and can be undertaken remotely, with occasional travel to a regional office. You will take responsibility for managing large and technically challenging projects from inception to completion, including preparing tenders, overseeing project budgets and timelines, and maintaining strong client relationships. The role includes delivering high-quality technical work such as Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA), and European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) applications. In addition, you will provide leadership to field teams, take ownership of survey quality, and ensure clear communication with project managers and team leads. Senior Ecological Consultants often act as line managers for Ecological Consultants and Assistant Ecologists and may also act as technical leads within their areas of expertise. What you'll need to succeed To succeed in this role, you will need: Proven experience as an Ecologist, ideally within a commercial consultancy environment A degree (or equivalent qualification) in ecology or a closely related discipline In-depth technical knowledge of ecology, relevant legislation, and survey methodologies Advanced field skills in one or more specialist ecological areas One or more protected species licences Experience delivering technically complex work such as EcIAs, HRAs, and EPSL applications Strong project management skills, including programme and budget management The ability to build and maintain strong client relationships Experience providing technical guidance and leadership to field teams Membership of CIEEM A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use Experience in ornithology, botany, or the ability to hold mitigation licences would be advantageous but is not essential. What you'll get in return In return, you will join a consultancy that genuinely values its people and supports long-term career development. You can expect: A competitive salary of £35,000 - £45,000, depending on experience 25 days annual leave Healthcare cash plan Enhanced pension scheme and life insurance Paid professional memberships and a clothing allowance Discounted gym membership Performance-related rewards and long-service awards Free parking Regular local and company-wide social events Access to industry-accredited external training and in-house learning Opportunities to lead high-profile, complex, and meaningful projects A flexible and supportive culture that promotes work-life balance What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk