Principal to Associate Director of Ecology

Salary/Rate:£45000.00 - £75000.00 per annum + Employee Ownership, Pension, Holiday
Job Type:Hybrid
Contract Type:Perm
Town/City:Exeter
County:Devon
Sector:Land and Planning
Job ref:JN -102026-85930_1793194828
Post Date:28. 10. 2026
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Meet Our Recruiter

About the Role

What if your next move gave you genuine influence, exciting projects, a fantastic team AND a share in the company's success?

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious Principal Ecologist to Associate Director to join a highly respected, growing and employee-owned environmental consultancy in beautiful Devon.

This is your chance to take ownership of complex projects, develop talented ecologists and help shape the future of a successful consultancy. Whether you're a Principal ready to step up or an established Associate Director looking for a fresh challenge, this could be the opportunity for you!

The Opportunity

Working across residential, infrastructure, utilities and environmental projects, you'll have the opportunity to:

  • Lead and deliver complex ecological projects.
  • Oversee technical reporting, including EcIAs, HRAs, BNG assessments, ES Ecology chapters and Ecological Management Plans.
  • Build strong client relationships and manage multidisciplinary project teams.
  • Mentor and develop talented ecologists.
  • Contribute to business development and commercial growth.
  • At Associate Director level, play a key role in the Senior Management Team.

Why Make the Move?

  • Employee ownership & profit share - Have a genuine stake in the company's success.
  • Career progression - Real opportunities to grow, lead and influence.
  • Hybrid working - Flexibility between home, office and site.
  • Stunning Devon location - An office overlooking the estuary.
  • Exciting projects - A diverse portfolio of technically challenging work.
  • Fantastic culture - A supportive, experienced and welcoming team.
  • Great benefits - Competitive pension, excellent training and three paid volunteering days annually.

What We're Looking For

  • Strong ecology consultancy experience at Senior, Principal or Associate Director level.
  • Excellent technical knowledge of ecological assessments and reporting.
  • Proven project management and client relationship skills.
  • Commercial awareness and an interest in business development.
  • A passion for mentoring and developing others.
  • Full CIEEM membership; chartership advantageous.
  • Relevant degree and full UK driving licence.

For Associate Director level, previous people management and senior leadership experience will be important.

Could This Be Your Next Chapter?

More influence. More opportunity. A genuine share in the success.

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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