Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor the ecology team while delivering innovative ecological solutions.
- Company: Dynamic consultancy focused on environment-led planning and design.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a growing team with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of ecology projects and make a real impact in diverse sectors.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field with extensive consultancy experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
A leading non-corporate, multi-disciplinary consultancy who specialise in Environment led Planning and Design are seeking an experienced Ecology professional for a leading role, ideally based out of York. Depending on experience and attributes, the role can be at Principal Consultant, Technical Director or Regional Director. Mid sized with strong growth plans, they work on projects at all scales within town, semi-rural and rural contexts, across a variety of sectors that includes residential, historic sites and estates, renewable energy, infrastructure and mixed-use commercial developments.
Irrespective of title, you will play a key leadership role within our Ecology team. You will be strategic, client-facing, responsible for leading regional delivery, driving business growth, and providing technical direction across a diverse project portfolio. This role is ideal for an established leader looking to shape and grow an ecology team, influence project outcomes at a strategic level, and contribute to the continued success of a multidisciplinary consultancy.
If successful, you will:
- Lead the northern ecology team, providing mentorship, technical oversight and strategic direction
- Act as a technical authority across key disciplines including EcIA, HRA, and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
- Oversee and deliver high-quality ecological input into complex, multidisciplinary projects
- Manage client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and identifying opportunities for growth
- Provide expert witness support where required, including Public Inquiries and Hearings
- Lead on project delivery, ensuring quality, programme and financial targets are met
- Support bid preparation, tendering and framework opportunities
- Collaborate across disciplines to deliver integrated, innovative solutions
- Contribute to the development of new services, technical standards and best practice
- Represent the company at industry events, strengthening brand and market presence
Essential Requirements:
- Degree (or equivalent) in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline
- Extensive experience in ecological consultancy, including leadership or senior management roles
- Proven track record in delivering large-scale and complex projects (e.g. infrastructure, energy, or major residential schemes)
- Strong technical expertise in: Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA), Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
- Demonstrable experience in managing teams, resources and project finances
- Experience acting in a client-facing role, with strong relationship management skills
- Excellent report writing and technical review capabilities
- Sound knowledge of UK planning policy, legislation and best practice
- Full membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. CIEEM)
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel
With an excellent remuneration and benefits package, this is certainly an opportunity to be considered. It has to be worth an initial conversation at least.
Ecology Leader in York employer: Hardgate Consulting
Contact Detail:
Hardgate Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecology Leader in York
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the ecology field. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with EcIA, HRA, and BNG. Share specific examples of how you've led projects or mentored teams. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate for that leadership role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals to join our team. By applying directly, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK planning policy and legislation. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to our multidisciplinary consultancy and drive business growth. Confidence is key, so practice your pitch and show us why you’re the perfect fit for the Ecology Leader role!
We think you need these skills to ace Ecology Leader in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Ecology Leader role. Highlight your leadership experience and technical expertise in areas like EcIA, HRA, and BNG to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about ecology and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any relevant projects you've led or been involved in.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've driven business growth or improved project outcomes in your previous roles to demonstrate your impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hardgate Consulting
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA), Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA), and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past projects, as this will show your technical expertise and leadership capabilities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and managing complex projects. Think about specific instances where you provided mentorship or strategic direction, as this role is all about shaping and growing the ecology team.
✨Client Relationships Matter
Since you'll be acting as a trusted advisor, come equipped with stories that demonstrate your relationship management skills. Discuss how you've identified growth opportunities for clients and how you've successfully navigated client interactions in the past.
✨Be Ready to Talk Strategy
This role involves driving business growth and influencing project outcomes at a strategic level. Prepare to discuss your vision for the ecology team and how you plan to contribute to the consultancy's success. Show them you're not just a doer, but a thinker!