Deer Strategy Lead for Protected Sites – Sussex

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA); Bucks Horn Oak; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Forestry Commission (part of DEFRA) is seeking a Deer Officer to lead deer-related delivery within the Sussex Protected Sites Strategy, translating ecological evidence into coordinated actions across landowners and delivery partners. The role emphasises habitat assessment, deer ecology and landscape collaboration.

The post holder will work with Natural England, Forestry Commission specialists and the Area Team to develop practical solutions that protect designated features while supporting

Qualifications

• Sound ecological judgement.
• Strong partnership-working skills.
• Ability to develop deer-specific knowledge where needed.
• Operational stalking experience is not required.

Responsibilities

• Understand habitat condition and identify priorities for protected sites and deer impacts.
• Turn evidence into a coordinated delivery plan for PSS landscapes with clear outcomes, actions and milestones.
• Build constructive relationships with landowners, managers and stakeholders; explain evidence and management choices clearly.
• Enable investment, assure delivery and share learning by monitoring progress and reporting ecological outcomes.

Skills

Ecology

Conservation

Forestry

Land management

Deer management

Partnership working

Job description

Forestry Commission (part of DEFRA) is seeking a Deer Officer to lead deer-related delivery within the Sussex Protected Sites Strategy, translating ecological evidence into coordinated actions across landowners and delivery partners. The role emphasises habitat assessment, deer ecology and landscape collaboration.

The post holder will work with Natural England, Forestry Commission specialists and the Area Team to develop practical solutions that protect designated features while supporting