About The Role
Why join us
We believe in putting our people first – we work hard every day to make sure everyone can achieve a healthy and enjoyable work-life-balance, that is why we have a very flexible hours system. We also believe in each of us challenging and improving ourselves – the opportunities to go further and be better at what you do are there for those that want them. We love success and we reward hard work.
We are seen as being customer focused, approachable and business-like. We are honest and open and are renowned for providing high quality cost-effective service.
About the role
We are now seeking an experienced and qualified arborist to lead the joint council's Forestry Team. This is an exciting and varied role working with a team of specialist advisers who are helping to shape the future environment of southern Oxfordshire. The role involves working alongside a multi-disciplinary team including Ecologists, Heritage Officers, Urban Designers and Landscape Architects.
You will need a wide range of technical and management experience working within the arboricultural industry, ideally as a consultant or tree officer, with knowledge and understanding of the Town and Country Planning Act and the planning process. A sound understanding of the practical side of arboriculture is also key.
Being a team player with good communication and leadership skills is essential, as the role also involves the line management of 3 other Tree Officers working within a busy Planning Service.
Key responsibilities for the role:
* To be the council's lead tree professional, responsible for the range of statutory arboricultural duties and legislation relating to the protection of trees.
* Working with the other senior officers to provide consistent and coordinated professional arboricultural advice to planning officers, planning agents, architects, consultants and councillors on a wide range of development proposals, including large strategic sites and infrastructure projects.
* To line manage the tree officers, including performance management, monitoring, coaching, and mentoring.
* To provide arboricultural reports, statements and evidence, acting as an expert witness representing the council at committee meetings, cabinet meetings, appeal hearings, public inquiries and court appearances.
* To raise public awareness of trees, tree legislation and best practice by providing training for council officers, councillors, town and parishes and other community groups.
If you have a positive team working approach as well as the knowledge and experience, this is an excellent opportunity to use your skills in a supportive and proactive working environment.
A full list of the duties this role provides, as well as the benefits we offer, can be found within the job description.
Thank you for taking the time to read our advert, we look forward to receiving your application.
If you would like an informal discussion about this role please contact Matt Gulliford - Planning Specialist Team Leader on or via