Director of Ecology

We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of Ecology & Biodiversity to join a growing, values-led environmental consultancy. This is a senior leadership role focused on delivering technical excellence, supporting business growth, and leading a multidisciplinary ecology team across the UK.

We welcome applications from candidates with a broad range of ecological backgrounds and specialisms, particularly those currently operating at Associate Director or Director level who are looking for their next challenge.

Flexible working arrangements are supported, with the opportunity to be based from one of several UK offices.

The Role

As Director of Ecology & Biodiversity, you will:

• Lead and develop the ecology team across the UK and beyond

• Drive technical excellence and ensure high-quality project delivery

• Contribute to business growth and profitability targets

• Manage and coordinate a technical business group aligned with company strategy

• Collaborate with regional Ecology & Biodiversity Managers to ensure consistency and operational excellence

• Support business development and maintain strong client relationships

• Oversee project delivery, ensuring client satisfaction and successful outcomes

You will join a supportive, collaborative team with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and delivering impactful ecological solutions.

Experience & Skills

Applicants should be able to demonstrate a combination of the following:

• Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and best practice guidance

• Expertise in one or more ecological disciplines (e.g. habitats, botany, ornithology, protected species)

• Proven project management experience across a range of projects, including:

  • Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA)

  • Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)

  • Construction ecological support

  • Habitat restoration and monitoring

  • Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and ESG initiatives

• Experience reviewing and coordinating EIA chapters

• Experience reviewing Habitats Regulations Appraisals (HRA) and Appropriate Assessments (AA)

• Strong leadership experience managing ecology teams and projects across the UK

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

• Strong report writing and client-facing experience

• Experience managing frameworks, budgets, and financial reporting

• Line management experience, including senior staff supervision

• Strategic planning and business development experience

Qualifications

• Degree (BSc and/or MSc) in Ecology or a related discipline

• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. CIEEM)

• Chartered Ecologist status desirable

Desirable Competencies

Experience in any of the following areas would be advantageous:

• Habitat surveys and assessments

• Protected species surveying, mitigation, and licensing

• Ornithological surveys

• Leading ecology, ornithology, and ECoW teams

• Production of EIA chapters

• HRA and AA reporting

• GIS and spatial analysis

• Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) and construction support

• Biodiversity Net Gain and ESG delivery

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and let's have a chat.