Associate Director Ecology

Astute People; London; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

A consultancy firm in London seeks an Associate / Associate Director - Ecology to lead ecological projects and mentor team members. The role offers a salary of £65,000 to £72,000, flexible hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth. Ideal candidates will have extensive consultancy experience, a relevant degree, and knowledge of UK wildlife legislation. Join a collaborative environment focused on sustainability and innovation.

Benefits

Car allowance (up to £5,000)

Flexible hybrid working

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Private medical insurance

Career development and chartership support

Qualifications

• Extensive consultancy experience, ideally at Senior, Principal or Associate level.
• Full membership of CIEEM (or working towards it) required.
• Chartered status (CEcol or CEnv) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and delivery of ecological projects.
• Prepare and review ecological reports and assessments.
• Mentor junior team members and support their development.
• Identify new service and client growth opportunities.

Skills

Ecological consultancy expertise

Project management

Team leadership

Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation

Education

Relevant degree (Ecology, Environmental Science)

Job description

Astute's Environmental team is working with a purpose-driven consultancy recognised for its collaborative culture and technical excellence, to recruit an Associate / Associate Director - Ecology, based in either London or Redhill (Gatwick), with flexible hybrid working.
This Associate / Associate Director - Ecology role offers a salary of 65,000 to 72,000, alongside flexible working, structured progression, and a collaborative team environment committed to sustainability and innovation.
If you're an experienced ecological consultant looking to take a lead role in shaping the future of ecology consultancy in the South East - while working across varied, high-impact projects submit your CV to apply today.

Responsibilities and duties of the Associate / Associate Director - Ecology role

Reporting to the Business Unit Director, you will:

• Lead the planning and delivery of a broad portfolio of ecological projects
• Prepare and review PEAs, EcIAs, ES chapters, BNG assessments, and HRA reports
• Provide high-quality technical and commercial advice to clients
• Oversee project delivery, ensuring financial performance and client satisfaction
• Write and contribute to tenders, bids, and proposals
• Mentor junior team members and support professional development
• Act as technical reviewer for reports and deliverables
• Identify opportunities for new services and client growth
• Champion best practice in health, safety, and quality assurance

Professional qualifications

We are looking for someone with the following:

• A relevant degree (Ecology, Environmental Science, or related discipline)
• Extensive consultancy experience, ideally at Senior, Principal or Associate level
• Full membership of CIEEM (or working toward it)
• Chartered status (CEcol or CEnv) desirable
• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and protected species
• Proven track record in project management and client engagement
• Experience in team leadership and technical mentoring
• A full UK manual driving licence

Personal skills

The Associate / Associate Director - Ecology role would suit someone who is:

• Commercially aware, technically excellent, and collaborative in approach
• Passionate about delivering pragmatic, high-quality solutions
• Skilled in both independent and team-based working
• Looking to make a long-term impact within a growing team
• Excited by a leadership role that combines hands-on delivery with strategic growth

Salary and benefits of the Associate / Associate Director - Ecology role

• 65,000 - 72,000 depending on experience
• Car allowance (up to 5,000)
• Flexible hybrid working (1-2 days per week in-office preferred)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (option to buy more)
• Private medical insurance
• Career development and chartership support
• Annual salary review aligned to market standards
• Collaborative and inclusive team culture

INDNUC

Astute People are acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and comply with all relevant UK legislation. We encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Astute is also committed to the government's Disability Confident Employer initiative. We endeavour to get back to everyone, however, if you have not heard anything after 7 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.