Job Introduction
Main Responsibilities
- Lead the planning and delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services across a diverse portfolio of development projects;
- Act as the technical authority for BNG, ensuring high-quality, compliant and commercially robust ecological and BNG outcomes for clients.
- Oversee the assessment, modelling and interpretation of biodiversity data using the statutory biodiversity metric and supporting software and guidance to determine appropriate BNG outcomes, delivery mechanisms and long-term management solutions.
- Provide clear, solutions-focused and commercially sound advice to clients, local planning authorities and stakeholders on BNG requirements, risks and opportunities.
- Undertake quality assurance and technical review of BNG and ecological outputs produced by the wider team, ensuring consistency with legislation, policy and best practice.
- Drive business growth by identifying new BNG-related opportunities, developing service offerings, preparing tenders and bids, and proactively engaging with new and existing clients.
- Support the development of BNG markets and partnerships, including landowners, habitat banks and delivery partners.
- Line manage, coach and mentor ecology and BNG staff, supporting professional development and building internal BNG capability.
- Make timely, well-informed decisions that balance project delivery, team capacity and client needs.
- Promote and model high standards of health, safety and wellbeing in line with company procedures.
- Communicate clearly, professionally and collaboratively with colleagues, clients, local authorities, statutory bodies and other stakeholders.
Requirements:
- Degree in ecology, environmental science or a related discipline, or demonstrable equivalent professional experience.
- Strong understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain legislation, policy and guidance, and its application within the planning system.
- Proven experience in the assessment, delivery and management of BNG, including use of the statutory biodiversity metric.
- Sound knowledge of ecological legislation and planning policy relating to nature conservation and development.
- Experience preparing and reviewing ecological and BNG technical reports.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities, working effectively both independently and within multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Demonstrable ability to build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels.
Professional Memberships and Additional Requirements
- Full Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) (or working towards).
- Chartered Ecologist (CEcol) and/or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status advantageous.
- Species survey and mitigation licences and/or postgraduate qualifications advantageous.
- Full UK driving licence (manual).