Co-ecology is an independent ecological consultancy based in Sussex, providing expert ecological advice and pragmatic solutions to a diverse client base across the UK.
Now in our sixth year of trading, we're entering an exciting new phase of growth and are looking for either an Associate Director or an experienced Principal Ecologist ready to take the next step in their career.
This is an opportunity to take on a leadership role within a growing independent consultancy, leading projects, developing client relationships, mentoring colleagues and contributing to the future growth and direction of the business.
Alongside delivering high-quality ecological consultancy services, Co-ecology is recognised for its innovative use of drone technology, providing specialist ecological survey services to consultancies across the UK. Our projects span the housing, infrastructure, heritage, leisure and local government sectors.
The Role
You will lead ecological projects from inception through to completion, ensuring the successful delivery of technical work, maintaining strong client relationships and supporting the continued development of the consultancy.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading ecological projects across a diverse portfolio of clients.
- Managing client relationships and acting as a trusted technical adviser.
- Overseeing and completing ecological assessments, including Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) work.
- Supervising project deliverables and ensuring compliance with relevant ecological legislation and planning requirements.
- Managing Biodiversity Net Gain delivery throughout the project lifecycle.
- Managing and implementing protected species mitigation licences.
- Providing technical advice to clients, stakeholders and project teams.
- Managing project budgets and programme delivery.
- Mentoring and supporting members of the ecology team.
- Contributing to the continued growth and development of the business.
About You
We're looking for someone who has a strong background in ecological consultancy together with the leadership skills to support both clients and colleagues.
You'll ideally have:
- Extensive experience within ecological consultancy.
- Strong botanical skills and/or demonstrable expertise in the survey, assessment and mitigation of protected species and habitats within the UK.
- Experience leading ecological projects and delivering high-quality technical work.
- Excellent communication and client relationship management skills.
- A people-centred leadership style with strong emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
- The ability to mentor and develop colleagues.
- Commercial awareness and experience managing project budgets.
- A genuine desire to contribute to the future growth and success of the consultancy.
What We Offer
In return, we offer:
- Competitive salary.
- Annual profit-related bonus.
- Generous training and professional development budget.
- Support towards CIEEM Chartership.
- Conference attendance.
- Progressive terms of employment.
- Hybrid working with flexibility for remote working.
- Genuine opportunities to help shape the future direction of a growing independent consultancy.
If you're an experienced Principal Ecologist looking to progress into a more strategic leadership role, or an established Associate Director seeking your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today to join Co-ecology as we enter our next phase of growth.