Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North)
Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North)

Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North)

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Lanpro

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic ecology team and drive innovative environmental projects across the North.
  • Company: Join Lanpro, a top consultancy in environment-led planning and design.
  • Benefits: Enjoy enhanced leave, hybrid working, health care, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Flexible work environment with excellent growth and mentorship opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse ecological projects while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field with extensive consultancy experience.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

Lanpro is a market-leading multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in environment-led planning and design. We work on projects at all scales within town, semi-rural and rural contexts across sectors including residential, historic sites, renewable energy, infrastructure and mixed-use commercial developments.

We are seeking experienced and driven candidates for a potential role of Principal Consultant / Technical Director of Ecology / Regional Director of Ecology (title to be agreed, dependent on experience). The successful candidate will play a key leadership role within our Ecology team, being strategic, client-facing, responsible for leading regional delivery, driving business growth and providing technical direction across a diverse project portfolio. The role will ideally be based in our York office, with responsibility for expanding our ecology presence across the North of England and beyond. Travel to other offices and project sites will be required.

Key Responsibilities

  • 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

Desirable Requirements

  • Protected species licences (e.g. bat survey licence)
  • Experience acting as an Expert Witness
  • International project experience
  • Strong commercial awareness and experience contributing to business development strategy
  • Experience working within multidisciplinary consultancy environments

Benefits

  • Day One Enhanced Annual Leave entitlement
  • Death in service cover
  • Centrally based City offices
  • Hybrid working environment (flexible work)
  • Protected CPD (Department, individual and companywide)
  • Professional Body membership contribution
  • Enhanced Company pension
  • Career progression framework and development, including two defined promotion windows annually.
  • E Learning portal access
  • Non‑contractual growth bonus scheme

After Probation and Beyond

  • Loyalty Leave (Continuous Service Accrued Annual Leave up to 5 days)
  • Vitality Health Care – Private Medical Insurance
  • Discounted Gym membership
  • Discounts and perks – Amazon Prime, Free Odeon Cinema tickets, Apple benefits and Cafe Nero
  • Employee Assistance Program – including Financial and Mental Health support from external expertise
  • BUPA Cash Plan
  • Cycle to work scheme

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in each person’s potential, and we’ll help you reach yours.

Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North) employer: Lanpro

Lanpro is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of York, where you can lead a talented ecology team and make a significant impact on diverse projects across the North of England. With a strong commitment to employee growth, including enhanced annual leave, professional development opportunities, and a hybrid working model, Lanpro fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to meaningful environmental solutions.
Lanpro

Contact Detail:

Lanpro Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North)

✨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’re chatting with potential employers or at networking events, make sure to highlight your experience with EcIA, HRA, and BNG. Share specific examples of projects you've led or contributed to, as this will help you stand out as a strong candidate.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your approach to show how your skills align with our mission at Lanpro, and let us know why you’re excited about the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you would lead the northern ecology team and drive business growth. Practice answering common interview questions, and don’t forget to prepare some thoughtful questions for us too!

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North)

Leadership Skills
Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA)
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
Client Relationship Management
Project Management
Technical Oversight
Report Writing
Technical Review
Knowledge of UK Planning Policy
Business Development Strategy
Mentorship
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Expert Witness Experience
Commercial Awareness

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership roles and technical expertise in ecology, as these are key for us at Lanpro.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Principal Ecologist role. Share specific examples of your past projects and how they relate to our work.

Showcase Your Technical Skills: We want to see your technical prowess! Be sure to mention your experience with EcIA, HRA, and BNG in both your CV and cover letter. This will help us understand your depth of knowledge in ecological consultancy.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Lanpro.

How to prepare for a job interview at Lanpro

✨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 managing teams and delivering complex projects. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you led your team to overcome them. This will demonstrate your ability to mentor and provide strategic direction.

✨Client Relationships Matter

Be ready to talk about your experience in client-facing roles. Share stories where you acted as a trusted advisor and identified growth opportunities. This will showcase your relationship management skills, which are crucial for the role.

✨Get Familiar with the Company

Research Lanpro and their recent projects. Understanding their approach to environment-led planning and design will help you align your answers with their values and goals. Plus, it shows genuine interest in the company, which can set you apart from other candidates.

Principal Ecologist / Technical Director [Ecology] / Regional Director of Ecology (North)
Lanpro

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