At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage significant rural assets and provide expert estate management advice.
- Company: Forestry England, a values-led organisation with a long-term purpose.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension contributions, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on nationally important landscapes while enjoying autonomy.
- Qualifications: Chartered membership of RICS and experience in estate management required.
The predicted salary is between 48765 - 52557 £ per year.
We’re recruiting an experienced Land Agent to join the Estates team in Forestry England’s South District. This is a senior professional role offering real influence, variety and the opportunity to manage some of the most significant rural and environmental assets in England, including land within the New Forest National Park.
Location: Lyndhurst, Hampshire (with blended working available)
Contract: Permanent, full-time (37 hours per week)
Salary: £48,765 – £52,557
Closing date: 11:55pm, Thursday 23 April 2026
The opportunity
We’re looking for a confident, commercially aware Land Agent who can combine strong technical expertise with leadership capability. In this role, you’ll provide professional estate management and property advice across a large and diverse portfolio spanning Surrey, Hampshire, West Sussex and Berkshire, with wider coverage across the South District. You’ll work closely with senior leaders and multidisciplinary teams, playing a key role in shaping how Forestry England manages, protects and derives value from its land and built assets.
What you’ll be responsible for
- Lead and manage the District Estates team alongside another Area Land Agent, including line management responsibilities
- Act as cost centre manager for the Estates budget, overseeing annual and five‑year business planning
- Manage a wide-ranging portfolio of residential, agricultural and commercial properties
- Negotiate and renew leases, licences, wayleaves and agreements
- Lead on land acquisitions and disposals, securing best value outcomes
- Undertake RICS Red Book valuations for financial and internal purposes
- Handle legal and compensation claims in liaison with solicitors
- Identify development and income‑generating opportunities aligned with government policy
- Support delivery of Forestry England’s Energy Strategy and low‑carbon ambitions
- Contribute as a member of the District senior leadership team
Who we’re looking for
Essential requirements
- Chartered membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS or FRICS)
- Degree (or equivalent) in Rural Estate Management or a related discipline
- Proven experience in rural or general practice estate management
Desirable
- RICS Registered Valuer status
- Fellow of the Association of Agricultural Valuers
- Experience using GIS and strong IT skills
- Understanding of sustainable forest management
We’re keen to hear from candidates who are collaborative, decisive and comfortable working within sensitive, high‑profile landscapes.
Why Forestry England?
This is a standout role because it offers:
- Responsibility for unique, nationally important assets
- Significant autonomy and professional trust
- A supportive, values‑led organisation with long‑term purpose
- Flexible and blended working arrangements
- Excellent development and progression opportunities
Benefits include:
- 25–30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and additional leave
- Generous Civil Service pension (minimum 20% employer contribution)
- Paid professional membership fees
- Family‑friendly policies and wellbeing support
- Structured learning and development, including five dedicated learning days per year
How to Apply
If you are looking for a friendly, knowledgeable team then this could be a great role for you. Your application will be dealt with in the strictest confidence by Dan Cole. Please call our office on 07443 880 834 or alternatively send your CV (at this stage do not worry if it’s not up-to-date) directly to . Alternatively, if you would like to ask a few questions before applying, please get in touch.
Land Agent in Southampton employer: Beach Baker
Forestry England is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to manage significant rural and environmental assets within the picturesque New Forest National Park. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive, values-led culture, you will thrive in a role that not only provides professional autonomy but also contributes to sustainable land management and conservation efforts. Join us for a rewarding career where your expertise will make a real difference in protecting and enhancing England's natural heritage.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Land Agent in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also in how we can contribute to their mission. Tailor your answers to reflect their goals and demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. We can even record ourselves to review our body language and responses. The more we practice, the more confident we’ll feel when it’s time for the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We should express our appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate our enthusiasm for the role. It shows we’re proactive and genuinely interested!
We think you need these skills to ace Land Agent in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Land Agent role. Highlight your chartered membership and any relevant estate management experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about managing rural assets and how your background aligns with our values at Forestry England.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your technical expertise, especially in areas like RICS Red Book valuations or GIS. We love seeing candidates who can bring strong IT skills to the table!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Beach Baker
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of rural estate management and the specific responsibilities of a Land Agent. Familiarise yourself with Forestry England's mission and values, especially their focus on sustainable forest management and energy strategies.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role involves managing a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Think of examples where you've successfully led a project or team, particularly in sensitive environments, and how you navigated challenges.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to RICS Red Book valuations, lease negotiations, and property management. Brush up on relevant legislation and best practices, and be ready to demonstrate your technical expertise with real-life scenarios.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about the team's current projects, the challenges they face, or how they measure success in managing their diverse portfolio. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
