Chief Executive Officer, Natural Resources Wales, Prif Weithredwr, Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru

Odgers Berndtson; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 135,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization managing natural resources in Wales seeks a CEO to lead its ambitious strategy for the sustainable management of the environment. The ideal candidate will have exceptional leadership skills, a passion for sustainability, and experience working with diverse stakeholders. This role offers a competitive salary and the chance to make a significant impact on the well-being of Wales's natural environment and communities.

Benefits

Generous pension

Relocation assistance

Qualifications

• Exceptional leadership skills and experience as a CEO or equivalent.
• Passion for the natural environment and sustainability.
• Ability to manage diverse stakeholders effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of NRW's complex strategy.
• Sustainably manage Wales's natural resources.
• Champion NRW's work for the benefit of the community.

Job description

Salary £159,984 plus generous pension and relocation.

Flexible location (hybrid working from NRW's offices in north, south, and mid Wales).

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is ambitious and the first of its kind worldwide. Established in 2013 from the coming together of Wales Environment Agency, Countryside Council for Wales and Forestry Commission, NRW's purpose is the sustainable management of Wales natural resources, focusing on tackling climate, nature and pollution emergencies - some of the biggest challenges facing society.

As Welsh Government's largest sponsored body, with a unique legislative remit that breaks new ground, NRW's aim is for natural resources and ecosystems to flourish along with society and the economy. The pan-Wales organisation of 2400 people, with a budget of £300m wants to leave the natural environment in a better state than it found it in and help improve the well-being and prosperity of the people of Wales.

The organisation now seeks a new CEO, offering a rare opportunity for someone to make a real difference on a significant scale. The successful appointee will be an exceptional, inspirational CEO (or ready to take this step), who shares NRW's passion for the natural environment, delivery, people and stakeholders.

They will lead the delivery of NRW's complex, challenging and far reaching strategy, working with diverse stakeholders, optimising economic prosperity and sustainably managing Wales natural resources, including woodlands and nature reserves, flood and coastal risk management, environmental regulation, Category 1 incident management, and environmental and planning monitoring and advice. They will be a champion for NRW's work and be proud to serve the people of Wales by being connected, bold, caring and resourceful.

To apply, please submit the following:

• CV
• Brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the requirements.

If you require further information, please call the Odgers Wales team for a confidential conversation in English or Welsh.

The closing date for applications is 31 October 2025.