Senior Reserve Manager, Thursley National Nature Reserve (Ref: 6267)

The Senior Reserve Manager (SRM) role leads the management of Natural England\’s National Nature Reserves (NNRs) within the Thames Solent Team. The SRM post will focus on Thursley NNR, a 325‑hectare heathland fragment in Surrey Hills National Landscape. The job demands a blend of technical land management knowledge and ecological understanding, with an emphasis on SSSI condition and contribution to Natural England\’s Strategy, NNR Strategy and 25‑Year Environment Plan. The SRM will also play a key role within the new Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve (NNR), a 2,700‑ha partnership landscape that combines Thursley NNR and partner‑managed lands.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of all NNR work programmes, ensuring projects are completed on time and to a high standard.
• Manage the allocated NNR budget, ensuring financial accountability and cost‑effective delivery.
• Implement and monitor robust Health & Safety procedures to protect staff, volunteers and visitors.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with local stakeholders to support NNR goals.
• Actively contribute to the Wealden Heaths super NNR partnership, aligning site management with collective nature recovery objectives and the Wealden Heaths Management Plan.
• Identify and secure external funding opportunities to enhance site operations and conservation impact.
• Coordinate efforts with partners, volunteer groups and the broader local community to foster shared stewardship.
• Provide direct line management to at least one Reserve Manager, supporting their professional development and performance.
• Oversee the management of Aldermaston Gravel Pits SSSI to ensure conservation objectives for the site are met, and develop a longer‑term plan for the site.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in land management, including coordination and oversight of habitat restoration activities and responsibility for health and safety of individuals carrying out practical conservation work.
• Experience of facilitating partnerships and public engagement to promote shared conservation goals and inclusive access to nature.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders, including landowners, Approved Bodies, local authorities and conservation organisations.
• Good working knowledge of SSSI legislation and operations within National Nature Reserves, including ecological sensitivities and statutory requirements.
• Understanding of the Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations and how they apply to habitat and infrastructure projects on NNRs.
• Working competence in core IT systems, including Microsoft Office, CMSi (Conservation Management System) and SOP (Standard Operating Procedures).
• Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard checks.

Technical/Specialist Knowledge

• Relevant and current (or recently expired) certification in key practical competencies, such as Outdoor First Aid or First Aid at Work, Chainsaw Operation (CS30, CS31), Pesticide Application (PA1a, PA6A), Brush‑cutter Use, IOSH Managing Safely (completed or in progress).

Competencies

• Leading and Managing People – Practitioner.
• Working Safely – Expert.
• Creating Resilient Landscapes – Practitioner.
• Putting People at the Heart – Expert.

Benefits

• Salary £37,950 plus a £10,994 contribution to the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme (28.97% employer contribution).
• Learning and development tailored to your role.
• Flexible working options.
• An inclusive culture encouraging diversity.
• An environment with flexible working options and a Civil Service pension with employer contribution of 28.97%.