About Wilderness Foundation UK
Established in South Africa in 1956, the Wilderness Foundation has taken 40,000 people into the wild. Based at Chatham Green in Essex, the Wilderness Foundation reaches in the region of over 5,000 children, young people and adults per year.
The purpose of the Foundation is to prepare and educate for the future and protect wild spaces. We believe that nature and wild spaces are of incalculable value not just to maintain biodiversity and wildlife but for human wellbeing. All our projects and programmes have the same basis – to connect people to nature for wellbeing benefits, mental, spiritual and physical – and to teach people in turn to care for nature into the future by teaching Leave No Trace Ethics, respect and understanding of our impact on a web of life. We have 92 acres of semi‑rural ancient woodland that we protect and manage for future generations.
Registered Charity No: 1118493 (England and Wales) SC041697 (Scotland)
Role Specification
To oversee all activities at Mann Wood, including:
* Undertaking the objectives of the woodland management plan as set out by our Trustees. Tree risk management and all risks associated with the woodland 20% in areas of engagement with groups.
* Undertaking general forestry operational activity such as tree thinning when necessary, risk assessments, mowing of rides and access maintenance.
* Undertaking practical forestry for Health and Safety Outcomes to maintain public access.
* Build and supervise volunteer groups and support and develop their engagement.
* Responsible for general health and safety on site.
* Support groups and events and champion WFUK.
* Coordinate visiting groups and regular open days.
* Check public footpath weekly.
* Conduct species surveys, general biodiversity monitoring and report on health of woodland.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Proven experience managing woodlands, forests, or countryside estates.
* Experience developing and implementing non‑intervention woodland management plans.
* Knowledge of woodland and other conservation, and habitat management.
* Experience managing contractors, budgets, and operational work programmes.
* Familiarity with grant schemes, licences, and income generation in therapy, forestry commission and others.
* Experience balancing commercial, recreational, and environmental objectives.
Knowledge
* Strong understanding of non‑intervention woodland management practices and safe woodland areas for therapy and recreation.
* Knowledge of UK forestry legislation, environmental compliance, and biodiversity requirements.
* Understanding of tree health, pests, diseases, and biosecurity measures.
* Awareness of climate resilience and woodland creation strategies.
* Working knowledge of GIS mapping, forestry software, and reporting systems.
Qualifications and Training
* Degree, diploma, or equivalent experience in Forestry, Woodland Management, Environmental Management, Countryside Management, or a related field.
* Professional membership or working toward membership of organisations linked to woodlands and forests.
* Relevant health and safety training (e.g., chainsaw safety awareness, first aid, risk assessment).
* A full driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential for this role.
This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure check and reference check.
To apply, please submit your CV to jobs@wildernessfoundation.org.uk.
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