As an Associate Director/Director level ecologist, you will lead and grow our Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) capability within a nationally recognised, multidisciplinary consultancy. You will play a key role in expanding our UK presence, building on an established and diverse BNG project portfolio, and strengthening collaboration across planning, engineering, transport and environmental teams. This role combines technical leadership, strategic input and business development, ensuring the delivery of high‑quality BNG services while supporting clients across sectors including residential, energy, defence, transport and government.
Your Impact in this Position
You will act as the national lead for BNG, shaping strategy, driving innovation and setting technical standards across projects. Your expertise will guide the delivery of assessments, management plans and biodiversity solutions, while influencing both internal teams and external stakeholders.
You will lead on bids and tenders, support commercial growth, and mentor a team of specialists—creating a high‑performing, collaborative environment that delivers measurable environmental outcomes.
Core Capabilities
Technical Leadership & Expertise
* Lead delivery and quality assurance of BNG assessments, strategies and management plans
* Apply in‑depth knowledge of BNG principles, metrics, offsetting and trading rules
Strategic Thinking & Commercial Awareness
* Identify growth opportunities and contribute to business strategy
* Lead tenders and support commercial decision‑making
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
* Build strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders
* Confidently engage with local authorities, clients and partners
Team Leadership & Development
* Develop and mentor technical specialists
* Foster a collaborative, high‑performance culture
Project Delivery Excellence
* Ensure high‑quality, client‑focused delivery across a diverse project portfolio
* Adapt technical solutions to meet project and client needs
Skills, Experience & Qualifications
* Strong experience in Biodiversity Net Gain within a consultancy environment
* Proven leadership and team development capability
* Excellent understanding of BNG policy, guidance and best practice
* Experience in stakeholder engagement and multidisciplinary working
* Relevant degree and professional membership (e.g. CIEEM), with Chartered status desirable
Working Environment
This role offers fully flexible, hybrid working with access to a network of UK offices. There are no fixed office day requirements—work where and when you are most effective while supporting your team and clients. Flexible hours, including compressed or reduced working patterns, are supported to promote a healthy work‑life balance.
In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role.
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