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- Tasks: Lead global plant conservation initiatives and develop impactful programmes.
- Company: Join BGCI, the largest global plant conservation network with a mission to protect biodiversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in plant conservation and inspire diverse teams worldwide.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in conservation, with experience in strategic programme development.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
BGCI is seeking an experienced, committed and strategic Director of Conservation to provide leadership across the organisation’s policy, conservation prioritisation and conservation action portfolio. The postholder will translate BGCI’s 2026–2030 Strategic Framework into coherent programmes, partnerships, monitoring systems and resource mobilisation, ensuring that BGCI’s work delivers measurable outcomes for plant conservation, ecological restoration and community resilience. The Director will help position BGCI as the most effective and renowned plant conservation network in the world, working across an expanded global network of botanic gardens and other conservation organisations to bring more plant species under conservation action.
The role requires a strong combination of conservation leadership, programme oversight, partnership development, fundraising and people management.
Job Purpose: To provide strategic direction to the organisation’s plant conservation activities worldwide.
Reports to: Secretary General
Contract Type: Full-time (35hrs/week)
Duration: Permanent
Location: BGCI Offices, Kew, London; Hybrid
Remuneration: £55,000 - £60,000pa dependent on level of experience within a broad range (experience, required qualifications, training) and performance related to budget management, project management and other measures.
About BGCI: Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) is the largest global plant conservation network with over 950 member institutions in more than 120 countries. BGCI plays a key coordinating role, facilitating collaboration between botanic gardens and other conservation organisations, and supports the development and long-term functioning of botanic garden networks. BGCI ensures that local expertise contributes to global impact, and mobilises funding and technical assistance for practical conservation efforts worldwide.
Person Specification: BGCI is seeking to appoint an individual with strong track record in strategic leadership in plant conservation, with the ability to translate global frameworks into impactful programmes and partnerships. Candidates will have a proven track record working within a conservation or scientific organisation, ideally in plant conservation, with demonstrable experience delivering complex, multi-partner initiatives at international scale. The post holder will be an experienced team leader with demonstrable success in inspiring and motivating diverse teams. They will bring a sophisticated understanding of the institutional landscape in which BGCI operates, including botanic gardens, governments, NGOs, and multilateral processes, and will demonstrate cultural awareness and political acuity in navigating complex, multicultural and multinational contexts.
Application Process: If you are interested in this role, please send us your CV and a cover letter (two pages maximum), explaining your motivation for the role and providing examples and evidence of how you are suitable for the position. Please also confirm in your letter that you are eligible to work in the UK. Please note that the role is UK based so you must be eligible to work in the UK. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Please confirm in your cover letter that you are eligible to work in the UK.
Closing date for applications is 10.00am 5th May 2026. The interviews will be conducted online week commencing 25th May 2026.
BGCI is committed to putting equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our organisation. We are committed to ensuring a working environment in which all individuals are free from discrimination and in which opportunities are equal to all. We encourage applications from all sections of the community, particularly those underrepresented within our sector.
Director of Conservation in London employer: Botanic Gardens Conservation International
Contact Detail:
Botanic Gardens Conservation International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Conservation in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the conservation field, especially those linked to botanic gardens or NGOs. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up at industry events and conferences. These are golden opportunities to meet potential employers and showcase your passion for plant conservation. Plus, you’ll get to learn about the latest trends and challenges in the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching BGCI’s current projects and initiatives. Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see that you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission in plant conservation.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Conservation in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Conservation role. Highlight your experience in strategic leadership and plant conservation, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant partnerships or fundraising successes!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with BGCI’s mission. Use specific examples to demonstrate your suitability and remember to mention your eligibility to work in the UK.
Be Concise and Clear: Keep your cover letter to two pages maximum. Be clear and concise in your writing, making it easy for us to see your qualifications and motivation at a glance. Avoid jargon and keep it professional yet engaging!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Botanic Gardens Conservation International
✨Know Your Conservation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and challenges in plant conservation. Familiarise yourself with BGCI's 2026–2030 Strategic Framework and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the bigger picture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Conservation, you'll need to inspire and manage diverse teams. Prepare specific examples from your past where you've successfully led initiatives or projects. Highlight your ability to motivate others and navigate complex partnerships, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Awareness
Given the global nature of BGCI's work, it's important to show that you can operate effectively in multicultural environments. Think of instances where you've worked with international teams or organisations, and be ready to discuss how you handled any challenges that arose.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about BGCI’s current projects, future goals, and team dynamics. This not only shows your genuine interest in the organisation but also helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.