Ecology Team Leader

JR United Kingdom; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in Bristol seeks an Associate Director – Ecology to lead a talented team, ensuring technical excellence and driving business development. The role offers a chance to influence strategic direction in a purpose-driven environment focused on sustainability and innovation.

Benefits

Competitive salary up to £75k

Performance bonus

Flexible, hybrid working culture

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Training budget and career development support

Company pension & enhanced parental leave

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in ecological consultancy.
• Full CIEEM membership and relevant protected species licence(s).

Responsibilities

• Lead high-quality ecological projects across sectors.
• Mentor and manage ecology team members.
• Build and maintain trusted client relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project Management

Client Management

Education

Degree in ecology

Job description

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NSB Recruitment have an exceptional opportunity for a commercially minded and technically skilled Associate Director – Ecology to join a forward-thinking, independent consultancy with a national presence and a strong base in Bristol.

This is a rare chance to lead an established and talented ecology team, influence strategic direction, and shape the future of a business that places professional integrity, sustainability, and innovation at its core.

The Company

Our client is a thriving, purpose-driven consultancy specialising in ecology and sustainability. With a diverse project portfolio that spans infrastructure, renewable energy, conservation, and biodiversity enhancement, they are recognised for delivering expert, pragmatic solutions with measurable environmental value.

Ongoing growth means they are now seeking an experienced ecological consultant to step into a senior leadership role—guiding complex projects, mentoring colleagues, and supporting the evolution of the ecology service line.

The Role

As Associate Director – Ecology, you will play a pivotal role in leading and growing the team, ensuring technical excellence across projects, developing client relationships, and driving new opportunities in line with the company’s ethical and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead high-quality ecological projects across sectors, from inception to delivery.
• Provide technical direction on assessments, including EcIA and HRA, and oversee QA processes.
• Mentor and manage ecology team members, supporting career development and knowledge sharing.
• Build and maintain trusted client relationships, contributing to business development and tenders.
• Collaborate with directors to shape company strategy and champion sustainable practices.
• Represent the consultancy at industry events and within professional networks.

About You:

• Degree in ecology or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in ecological consultancy, including team or project leadership.
• Strong knowledge of UK/EU environmental legislation and planning policy.
• Skilled in managing complex, multidisciplinary projects with a commercial focus.
• Excellent communicator with proven client management and work-winning abilities.
• Full CIEEM membership and relevant protected species licence(s).
• UK driving licence and willingness to travel.
• Chartered Ecologist or working toward chartership.
• Expertise in Biodiversity Net Gain, nature-based solutions, or habitat banking.
• Understanding of climate resilience or broader environmental planning themes.

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive salary up to £75k (doe) and performance bonus
• Flexible, hybrid working culture
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (buy/sell options)
• Training budget and career development support
• Company pension & enhanced parental leave
• A genuine opportunity to influence and grow a purpose-led, values-driven consultancy

If this Ecology Team Leader role is of interest to you, please click apply now below.