Ecology Associate Director

Salary/Rate:£60,000 - £70,000 per annum + Healthcare, pension, holidays
Job Type:Hybrid
Contract Type:Perm
Town/City:Birmingham
County:West Midlands
Sector:Land and Planning
Job ref:JN -032025-83427_1752848418
Post Date:18. 07. 2025
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Meet Our Recruiter

Sue Greeff
Sue Greeff
Candidate Manager - Residential development, town planning, infrastructure and renewables

About the Role

A rare opportunity to lead and grow a regional ecology team within a well-established, multi-disciplinary consultancy. You'll be at the forefront of delivering strategic environmental advice on high-profile projects including mixed-use developments, major infrastructure, and property-led schemes.

This role combines technical leadership, business development, and people management-ideal for a seasoned ecologist ready to step into a senior strategic position.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead regional ecological operations and develop a high-performing local team
  • Manage protected species surveys, EIAs, HRAs, mitigation strategies, and licensing
  • Guide multi-phase projects from feasibility to post-consent delivery
  • Collaborate across offices and disciplines to support cross-sector project delivery
  • Act as technical lead and contribute to commercial bids and fee proposals
  • Provide expert-level ecological advice to clients and project stakeholders
  • Oversee large-scale survey programmes and data management processes
  • Engage in client-facing responsibilities and support strategic growth initiatives

What You'll Bring

  • Degree in ecology or related subject
  • Full CIEEM membership (Chartered Ecologist preferred)
  • 10+ years in ecological consultancy with strong project delivery record
  • Expertise in UK ecological legislation, protected species, and planning processes
  • Experience in Biodiversity Net Gain, EIA, HRA, and large-scale mitigation design
  • Confident in business development and team leadership
  • Strong communication and report writing skills
  • Experience in linear infrastructure or property development is a plus
  • Full UK driving licence

Salary & Benefits

  • Up to £65,000
  • 26 days holiday, increasing with service, plus bank holidays
  • Hybrid working policy to support flexibility
  • Professional development pathways and structured training
  • Client-facing opportunities and input into marketing/growth strategy
  • Fast-track career progression based on performance

Why Apply?

  • Influence the direction of a growing regional ecology function
  • Work on complex, nationally significant development projects
  • Enjoy a collaborative culture and multidisciplinary exposure
  • Build your leadership profile while delivering work that shapes sustainable futures

When applying to any role through Cobalt, your CV will never be shared with a client without your prior consent. Apply in confidence below or get in touch with me for a confidential discussion about the position via sgreeff@cobaltrecruitment.com or 07458161399.

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