Director of Ecology

Natural Capital & BNG

Southampton

Looking for a role where strategy, leadership and commercial thinking sit at the heart of delivery?

Focussing on Natural Capital and BNG you'll play a pivotal role in directing and expanding strategic ecology services across rural, planning and development projects, helping clients unlock long term value while balancing environmental and commercial priorities. This is a unique opportunity to join a market leader in a developing team at Director level, working at the forefront of environmental policy, biodiversity strategy and land-use decision making.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive senior-level salary package
• Highly competitive performance bonus scheme
• Car allowance (DOE)
• Generous annual leave + option to purchase extra days
• Enhanced pension
• Car allowance
• Private healthcare
• Life assurance
• Sharesave/Share incentive plan
• Recommend a friend scheme
• Long service awards/annual leave
• Market-leading paid Paternity & Maternity leave
• Cycle to work scheme
• World-class training opportunities
• Discount on 1000s of retailers

The Role

You'll be responsible for directing and expanding the delivery of strategic ecology services across Rural, Planning and Development teams.

Your work will include:

• Providing strategic ecological advice to rural and urban clients, embedding nature within economic growth
• Advising on evolving environmental policy, including BNG
• Driving new business opportunities and improving operational efficiency
• Leading ecological due diligence across complex projects
• Peer reviewing ecological documentation, including BNG assessments
• Overseeing Environmental Statements and Habitat Regulations Assessments
• Coordinating ecological services delivered by third-party consultants
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders, environmental NGOs and Local Planning Authorities

You'll be helping clients navigate policy change while ensuring ecological delivery remains commercially sound, practical and future-focused.

This role is about leadership, influence and providing commercially astute ecological advice that shapes long-term environmental and development outcomes.

About You

• Significant experience delivering strategic ecology within consultancy, rural practice or development
• Strong understanding of BNG and current environmental policy
• CIEEM and CEnv qualified
• Proven ability to provide high-level, commercially focused ecological advice
• Experience reviewing technical documentation and complex assessments
• Confident engaging with regulators, stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams
• A natural leader who can grow services, develop relationships and drive innovation

What's Next?

For an informal discussion, call me, Simon on 01780480530 and we can talk through the role, team and opportunity in more detail.

Don't worry if your CV isn't fully up to date, just send what you have, and we'll take it from there.

What happens after I apply?

You'll be contacted by one of our sector specialists who'll talk through your background, interests, and goals.

We'll make sure the role is right for you and support you through each stage of the process.

Will someone guide me through the interview process?

Yes. Your consultant will brief you fully before interviews, provide insight into the company culture, and help you prepare so you can feel confident and well-informed.