We are looking for an inspiring individual to join us as an Area Director at the Environment Agency, guiding dedicated, values-driven teams in our Thames Area.
As an Area Director, you will play a vital role in our mission to protect and enhance the environment while supporting sustainable growth, ensuring people, nature and businesses can prosper together. You’ll empower teams to deliver our five year strategy, EA2030 change for a better environment, and respond effectively to incidents, whilst ensuring that our collective efforts prioritise sustainability and inclusivity.
You will:
Lead Operational Delivery in Area
Engage with a Variety of Stakeholders
Prioritise Health, Safety and Well-Being
Embed a culture of inclusion
Make Informed Decisions
Drive Innovation and Improvement
Collaborate with Peers
The Team:
Now is the time for proactive environmental stewardship. We want you to be part of this transformative journey and join our team committed to making a difference.
You will lead over 400 people working in the Thames Area, supported by a dedicated Area Leadership Team and peer group of 18 other Area Directors.
Experience/Skills Required:
We’re seeking individuals who understand the importance of strong leadership in environmental protection and community service.
To succeed in this role you should possess:
Strategic Thinking Skills
Calmness Under Pressure
Excellent Political Judgement
Emotional Intelligence and Resilience
Commitment to Health, Safety and Well-Being
Awareness of Incident Management
For more information on the role, please see our advert
Contact and Additional Information:
This is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the Environment Agency’s Thames Area, which stretches from Gloucestershire to Surrey. Your base location will be in Reading or Wallingford – this is a place-based role and will involve regular travel within the Thames Area.
There will also be some travel to other Environment Agency offices, such as London or Birmingham, with occasional overnight stays.
SC clearance will be needed for this role, which can be obtained once in post
Please download the candidate pack for full details including how to apply.
We will be running a virtual briefing session for candidates on 31 March 2026. For an invitation email: DirectorofOperationsSandE@environment-agency.gov.uk. If you are unable to attend a recording will be available.
Interviews will take place on 5 or 6 May 2026. Further details will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
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