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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to enhance river restoration and community engagement in Surrey.
- Company: Join SERT, a passionate organisation dedicated to environmental impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of river conservation and community collaboration.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for environmental sustainability.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of river catchments in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Role
SERT is re-organising our structure geographically into three Catchment Clusters in the South East (defined as South London, East and West). Having conducted a successful pilot in the East, we are now expanding this approach to the new South London and West Catchment Clusters. The West Catchment Cluster (WCC) requires an individual with proven leadership experience who can lead this newly formed team and strategically maximise SERT’s impact in the predominantly Surrey-based catchments of the Loddon, Wey and Mole.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Help to establish and enhance a ‘one-team’ ethos across the CC, whilst also ensuring it is embedded within the wider organisation.
- Lead WCC’s prioritisation on the key activities (both restoration and engagement) that we wish to undertake in our Surrey Catchments.
- Direct line management of two roles (this may increase in the future): i) Working with the Natural Flood Management Lead to grow the opportunities of using nature to hold back water in the landscape ii) Managing the Catchment Manager to ensure our Catchment Partnerships are action-based.
- Identify and directly support new project funding opportunities from a range of sources to grow our impact.
- Ensure WCC is at the right tables where decisions affecting its rivers are being made and has an important and respected voice in those decisions.
What We Are Looking For
This role is an exciting challenge and will require you to build on the foundations of what has already been achieved within these catchments. You will need to maximise impact by working with our Specialist Teams to prioritise SERT’s activities and strategically guide river restoration projects. You will also work closely with our Working With Communities team (WWC) to improve engagement with the communities who live along these rivers. It is desirable if you have a good overview of river catchments, data monitoring and the role that nature-based solutions (such as Natural Flood Management) play in providing multiple benefits.
About You
Besides having a passion for rivers, we require an individual who can confidently develop and grow a new team, whilst seeking new opportunities for impact. You will be adept at business development and will be comfortable supporting strategic relationships with catchment partners, local government, water companies, local businesses and environmental NGOs. You will need a good overview of Health and Safety best practice, empowering our Restoring River Catchments (RRC) team to undertake effective project delivery and risk management in the field.
Interested? Apply now via our website.
Application process
Closing date for applications: Tuesday 14th April 2026 at 11:59pm. Interviews: Monday 20th April - Friday 1st May 2026.
Locations
Area Manager (West) in Leatherhead, Surrey employer: SOUTH EAST RIVERS TRUST
Contact Detail:
SOUTH EAST RIVERS TRUST Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Manager (West) in Leatherhead, Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their mission. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to make an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Area Manager. Highlight your leadership skills and any relevant projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to drive results.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team and making a difference in the catchments.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Manager (West) in Leatherhead, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your leadership experience and passion for river restoration. We want to see how your skills align with the key duties outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since we’re all about that ‘one-team’ ethos, share examples of how you’ve successfully built and led teams in the past. We love hearing about collaboration and how you’ve engaged with communities or partners.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to mention any experience you have with natural flood management or working with catchment partnerships. This will show us that you understand the role and can hit the ground running.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, the best way to apply is through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at SOUTH EAST RIVERS TRUST
✨Know Your Catchments
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the specific catchments you'll be working with, especially the Loddon, Wey, and Mole. Familiarise yourself with their current challenges and opportunities, as well as any recent projects SERT has undertaken in these areas.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in building teams and fostering collaboration. Think about times when you successfully led a project or initiative, and be ready to discuss how you can apply those skills to create a 'one-team' ethos within the West Catchment Cluster.
✨Demonstrate Business Development Acumen
Be ready to talk about your experience in identifying and securing funding opportunities. Have specific examples of how you've successfully developed strategic relationships with partners, local government, or NGOs, and how you plan to leverage those skills for SERT's impact.
✨Engagement is Key
Since community engagement is crucial for this role, think of strategies you've used in the past to connect with local communities. Be prepared to discuss how you would work with the Working With Communities team to enhance engagement along the rivers, ensuring that local voices are heard and valued.