Ecology Director

Cobalt Consulting (UK) Ltd; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecology consultancy in the UK is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to guide strategic direction and manage a talented team. This senior leadership role involves overseeing complex ecological projects, building client relationships, and driving commercial growth. Ideal candidates should have extensive consultancy experience, strong leadership skills, and hold a relevant ecology degree. The position offers a competitive salary between £60,000 and £80,000, along with benefits such as healthcare and flexible working. Apply to shape the future of ecological consulting.

Benefits

Pension

Healthcare

Annual profit share scheme

Ongoing training and career development

Flexible working

Qualifications

• Extensive consultancy experience at senior level.
• Full membership of CIEEM (Chartered status desirable).
• Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to business growth.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership as part of the senior management team.
• Lead complex ecological projects, from inception through to delivery.
• Oversee and review technical outputs including EcIAs and management plans.

Skills

Staff management

Client communication

Technical report preparation

Business development

Leadership

Education

Relevant degree in ecology or related subject

Job description

A senior leadership opportunity for an experienced ecologist to play a key role in the strategic direction of a growing consultancy. You'll lead on the delivery of complex, high-profile projects, manage and develop a talented ecology team, and drive client relationships across a broad range of sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership as part of the senior management team
• Lead complex ecological projects, from inception through to delivery
• Manage and mentor a team of ecologists, supporting professional development
• Oversee and review technical outputs including EcIAs, HRAs, BNG assessments, ES chapters and management plans
• Build and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships
• Contribute to business development and commercial strategy

What You'll Bring

• Relevant degree in ecology or related subject
• Extensive consultancy experience at senior level
• Proven staff management and leadership skills
• Excellent communication and client-facing abilityConfidence in technical report preparation and review
• Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to business growth
• Full membership of CIEEM (Chartered status desirable)
• Full UK driving licence

Salary & Benefits

• £60,000 - £80,000
• Pension
• Healthcare
• Annual profit share scheme
• Flexible working between office, home, and site
• Ongoing training, mentoring, and career development
• Supportive, values-led culture within an employee-owned business

Why Apply?

• Play a central role in shaping and leading a respected ecology team
• Work on an exciting portfolio of varied and complex projects
• Benefit from employee-ownership profit sharing and a collaborative culture
• Enjoy career progression, flexible working, and meaningful environmental impact

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 [e-mail] or 07458161399.