Principal Consultant - Biodiversity & NbS

Principal Consultant – Biodiversity and NbS

• Use your scientific knowledge to support a range of interesting and forward-thinking clients with their biodiversity and Nature-based solutions.
• Varied daily responsibilities across strategy, client management, project delivery, team leadership, client engagement and financial management.
• Remote-first work.

Join an independent, science-focused company supporting a diverse range of clients to address critical issues like climate change and biodiversity loss, focusing on the landscapes they operate in and the supply chains they depend on. The company is small providing high-quality nature-based insights and toolkits, the principal consultant will oversee business development, client relationships, project delivery, research, working collaboratively with client and partner teams to deliver high quality solutions and insights. The ideal candidate will have a scientific academic background with consultancy experience in the biodiversity and/or Nature-based Solutions (NbS) space.

What you\’ll be doing:

• Leading the scientific strategy, ensuring alignment with sustainability principles, client goals, and regulatory requirements.
• Overseeing the technical approach, incorporating best practices and scientific advancements while mentoring and supervising a team of scientists to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Managing project execution, ensuring that all deliverables meet client needs and maintain the highest technical standards. Also refining the consultancy’s suite of services to address emerging trends in NbS and reporting frameworks, while monitoring project outcomes to ensure measurable environmental, societal, and economic impact.
• Overseeing the development and implementation of biodiversity and NbS projects, ensuring they meet scientific and reporting standards. Guiding the creation of tools, methodologies, and frameworks for nature-based solutions and nature-related risk reporting.
• Identifying and secure new opportunities with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector clients. Taking responsibility for business development; preparing compelling proposals, tenders, and pitches, while also strengthening relationships with existing clients to ensure satisfaction and retention.
• Leading a multidisciplinary team, the Principal Consultant will foster an environment of innovation and excellence, providing mentorship and support for team members to develop both their technical and commercial expertise. Also serving as a key advisor for clients, providing strategic guidance on NbS, sustainability, and reporting frameworks while representing the organisation at industry events to build its reputation.
• Managing financials, developing pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with sustainability objectives.

What experience you will need to apply:

• A Ph.D. (preferred) or a Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Climate Change, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Significant experience in nature-related disciplines, including projects in NbS, ecological restoration, and natural capital analysis. With expertise including policy and regulatory frameworks such as TNFD and the EU Taxonomy, with hands-on experience in implementation and client advisory.
• Strong track record in project management, successfully delivering multidisciplinary projects while managing budgets, timelines, and risks.
• Business development is a key strength, demonstrated by securing high-value contracts through client relationships, proposal development, and strategic partnerships.
• Experience managing and mentoring technical teams, fostering collaboration and innovation. Having a strong leadership presence, inspiring teams, developing technical capabilities, and driving high-performance cultures.
• Engaged with a diverse range of clients, from government agencies to multinational corporations, providing tailored solutions.
• Technical expertise including NbS, ecosystem services, environmental modelling, GIS, and monitoring tools.
• Excellent communication skills, with proficiency in writing, reporting, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement.

Desirable attributes include experience with emerging technologies such as AI, GIS, and remote sensing for NbS and reporting, as well as securing grants or managing public-private partnerships. Certifications in climate and carbon standards like SBTi, GHG Protocol, and Verra are advantageous, along with international project experience and multilingual abilities for global collaboration.

What you’ll get in return for your experience:

To be part of a fast-growing, purpose-driven company making a positive impact. The team is very experienced and knowledgeable in the space so there is an opportunity to develop skillets.

Full time remote role with (likely monthly) requirement to travel to London or Oxford.

Salary based on experience.

What’s next?

To discuss the opportunity, contact Jazz Jones: Jazz@adlib-recruitment.co.uk