Location: Lowther Estates, Cumbria Contract Type: Fixed-term (with potential to become permanent) Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience About the Role Lowther Estates is seeking a highly motivated and visionary individual to lead the creation and launch of a new ecology-focused company. This is a unique opportunity to combine entrepreneurial skills with environmental expertise, shaping a business that will deliver ecological services, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable land management solutions across Cumbria and beyond. Key Responsibilities Business Set-Up & Strategy - Develop and implement a comprehensive business plan, including service offerings, pricing models, and operational structures. Regulatory & Compliance - Ensure the company meets all relevant environmental, legal, and health & safety requirements. Partnership Development - Build relationships with local authorities, conservation bodies, landowners, and commercial clients. Service Development - Identify and design ecological services such as habitat surveys, biodiversity net gain projects, and habitat restoration schemes. Brand & Marketing - Create a strong brand identity and marketing strategy to position the company as a trusted ecological partner. Financial Management - Oversee budgets, funding applications, and revenue generation strategies. Team Building - Recruit and manage a small, skilled team of ecologists and support staff as the business grows. Essential Skills & Experience Knowledge of UK environmental legislation and biodiversity frameworks. Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to work independently and take ownership of a project from inception to delivery. Desirable Experience working in rural estate or land management contexts. Understanding of biodiversity net gain (BNG) and natural capital markets. Track record of securing funding or grants for environmental projects. What We Offer The chance to create and lead a pioneering ecological business from the ground up. Support from the Lowther Estates leadership team and access to estate resources. A role with purpose, contributing to environmental restoration and sustainable land use in Cumbria.