Role Overview
Job Title: Natural Environment Team Leader
Hours: 37
Salary: £46,142 to £50,269 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Location: Hereford
Closing date: 24 May 2026
Responsibilities
* Leading a multi‑award winning team, you’ll be the Council’s technical lead on ecology, biodiversity net gain, landscape, trees, open space and nature recovery.
* Managing a team of specialists delivering biodiversity and ecological services.
* Leading the implementation of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS).
* Providing expert advice to planning and development teams.
* Overseeing the Herefordshire Biological Records Service and Tree Preservation Orders.
* Developing and delivering innovative projects including habitat restoration and species protection.
* Representing the Council in regional and national forums, appeals and media enquiries.
* Managing budgets and funding bids to support environmental priorities.
* Promoting community engagement through volunteering and citizen science.
* Supporting the Nutrient Management Plan for the River Wye and River Lugg.
Qualifications
* Strategic mindset with the ability to deliver complex environmental programmes.
* Significant experience in one or more of the following: ecology, biodiversity net gain, landscape, trees, open space and nature recovery.
* Significant experience of the UK planning systems.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and project management skills.
* A full driving licence and willingness to undertake site visits.
* A degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
Benefits
* Competitive salary ranging from £46,142 to £50,269 per annum.
* Annual leave: 31 days’ annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays; option to purchase up to an additional 10 days per annum.
* Contributory pension and staff benefits scheme.
* Professional membership fee payment (based on role requirements).
* Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 access to support and counselling.
* Flexible working arrangements including potential for job‑sharing, part‑time hours and agile working.
EEO and Legal
* The council is committed to the “Disability Confident” scheme.
* Support for Armed Forces Veterans or Reservists under the Armed Forces Covenant.
* Support for Herefordshire care leavers.
#J-18808-Ljbffr