FPCR Environment and Design Ltd is a long established (in 1957) and highly regarded environmental and design consultancy, working extensively across the UK. The core skills of the practice comprise Masterplanning and Urban Design, Environmental Impact Assessment, Landscape, Ecology, Architecture and Arboriculture. Our valuable mix of multi-disciplinary expertise enables us to respond to complex projects in a creative yet thorough and co-ordinated manner.
We presently employ around 270 people across our offices at Lockington Hall (Derby and main office), Dorking, Exeter, York, Sheffield and Wareham.
FPCR EOT Background
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd became an employee owned business in early 2021. The majority of the business (95%) is owned by FPCR Employee Trustees Ltd, as an Employee Owned Trust (EOT). The remaining ownership (5%) is held by the three previous shareholders.
The EOT Board presently comprises three trustees. These are:
* An employee trustee;
* An independent trustee; and
* A ‘seller’ trustee (one of the three previous shareholders).
The Independent Trustee – Role and Skills
We are seeking a new independent trustee (and Chair of the trustees) to join our existing EOT board. Ideally, this person should have experience of acting in a similar role, as an independent trustee of an EOT. They should also bring governance and engagement experience, business and financial acumen, and a commitment to the principles of employee ownership.
Previous experience and knowledge of the environmental, design and architectural consultancy sector and a passion for the environment and sustainable development would also be beneficial.
We hope that the person will provide the board with fresh thinking and ideas, backed by relevant and practical knowledge and experience. An independent person who can offer a new view; ask both the simple and difficult questions; and support the existing and future board members.
Key Responsibilities and Requirements
* Act as an impartial member of the Board of Trustees, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of the long-term success of FPCR and the employee beneficiaries;
* Bring an independent viewpoint to board discussions;
* Provide strategic insight and governance oversight in line with the Trust’s objectives;
* Provide guidance on business, financial, and legal matters where appropriate;
* Provide guidance and mentoring to the other trustees, in their roles and responsibilities;
* Promote effective means of communication with the employee shareholders; other shareholders; and the FPCR Environment and Design Ltd board (the operating board);
* Liaise with the operating board and lead the trustees in any negotiations/ discussions with the operating board;
* Attend and chair the Trustee Meetings (4 per year; likely to be at least 2 in person meetings) and prepare the agenda and minutes.
Renumeration and commitment
The role is for an anticipated total of 35 - 40 hours pa and annual payment of £4,000.00 - £6,000.00, to be agreed based upon experience; plus, expenses; to be paid quarterly.
Other Information
The role will be for up to a maximum of 3 years, as per the terms of the Trust Deed.
The successful candidate will be appointed as a director of FPCR Employee Trustees Ltd.
If you are interested in the role and would like to contribute to the continued success of our employee-owned business, please email your CV and a short statement outlining your suitability and interest to tim.jackson@fpcr.co.uk and jenna.hughes@fpcr.co.uk. To find out more about us, please visit and/or contact Tim.
Closing date: 21st November 2025