Head of Ecology

About the Company:
Our client is a dynamic and rapidly growing company specializing in ecological and environmental services, with a particular focus on the rail sector. As a major contractor to Network Rail, they have a robust pipeline of projects secured for the next five years. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, they deliver high-quality, tailored solutions to their clients. As the company continues to expand, they are seeking a passionate and experienced Head of Ecology to lead their Ecology and Environment team and drive their ambitious growth within the rail industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of the company’s Ecology and Environment strategy, aligning it with business objectives.
• Act as the company's ambassador, upholding its values in all internal and external interactions.
• Oversee the management and optimization of the organization's ecological resources.
• Ensure effective project management of ecological contracts, with a focus on performance and commercial success.
• Build, lead, and support the Ecology and Environment team, fostering a culture of professional development.
• Report on departmental performance and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
• Produce high-quality contract performance reports, meeting both internal and external requirements.
• Collaborate with procurement and joint venture teams to share best practices and maximize value.
• Lead the implementation and monitoring of ecological measures, providing updates to senior management.
• Maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, sub-contractors, and suppliers.
• Work cross-departmentally to ensure timely, cost-effective, and high-quality delivery of projects.
• Design and deliver training on ecological conservation, including species protection and habitat mitigation.
• Support the company’s environmental, sustainability, and social value goals.
• Contribute to PQQs, bids, and tenders, specifically within the ecology sector.
• Manage departmental budgets, providing financial insights and cost analysis.
• Enhance and maintain environmental management systems, including audits and policy updates.
• Utilize GIS and other innovative technologies to improve service delivery.
• Ensure the production of high-quality technical reports.
• Stay current on environmental legislation, updating company policies as necessary.
• Maintain professional development, staying informed of scientific advancements and best practices.
• Uphold health, safety, and environmental procedures, promptly reporting any incidents.
• Act as a positive representative of the company, supporting its growth and ethos.

Person Specification:
Essential:

• Significant experience in a similar role, preferably in a contractor environment.
• Proven leadership and line management experience, with a focus on team development.
• Extensive experience in ecological project management, including complex multi-species and habitat surveys.
• Skilled in producing ecological survey reports using UKHab methods.
• In-depth knowledge of current legislation, UK policies, and ecological best practices.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in business development and bid management.
• Full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• Holder of protected species licenses (e.g., dormice, GCN, or bat).
• Excellent report writing, numerical data manipulation, and statistical analysis skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office and GIS applications.
• A professional, confident demeanor with the ability to represent the company externally.
• Sound knowledge of health, safety, and environmental practices.
• Full driving license.

Desirable:

• Chartered Ecologist (CEcol) or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status with CIEEM.
• Postgraduate degree in a relevant field.
• Personal Track Safety (PTS) certification.
• Experience in the rail industry.

Why Join?
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in shaping the ecological strategy of a forward-thinking company. You will lead a passionate team, contribute to meaningful projects, and grow within a company that values innovation and sustainability.

How to Apply:
If you are a motivated leader with a strong background in ecology and environmental management, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV to vicky@oceantoearth.co.uk.