At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects to restore wildlife and ecological networks in Sussex.
- Company: Join Sussex Wildlife Trust, a passionate team dedicated to nature recovery.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and health benefits while making a difference.
- Other info: We welcome diverse applicants and offer a supportive, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a bold strategy to protect wildlife and inspire community action.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and a passion for conservation are key.
The predicted salary is between 39596 - 39596 £ per year.
To deliver our new strategic plan – Our Wild Sussex – we need people with bold and innovative ideas to help us to achieve our ambitions for local wildlife and wild places. We are committed to restoring and protecting at least 30% of Sussex land and sea for nature, inspiring one in four people to take meaningful action for wildlife, building a stronger more inclusive and diverse organisation and becoming a net zero and climate resilient organisation.
We are looking for the best and most talented people to join our team and help us deliver this exciting and ambitious strategy. We are keen to hear from you even if you don't have all the skills and experience outlined in the Job Description but have the potential to grow into a role. So, if you are someone who is determined to see a Sussex rich in wildlife and you have drive, energy and commitment to our values of Innovation, Passion, Collaboration and Inclusion why not apply now to join our great team, working together to deliver Our Wild Sussex.
We particularly welcome applications from people currently underrepresented in the conservation sector, including disabled people, people from Black, Asian and other ethnically diverse backgrounds, people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, non-graduates, and people from geographically diverse communities. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
The Role
Sussex Wildlife Trust is seeking a strategic, collaborative and experienced Programme Manager to lead our Wilder Projects portfolio and support our ambitions for free-living beavers in Sussex. As Wilder Projects Programme Manager, you will oversee a portfolio of three ambitious Wilder Projects, alongside the work of our Sussex Beaver Lead. Together, these initiatives focus on restoring ecological networks, supporting thriving wildlife communities and driving nature recovery at a landscape scale. You will provide leadership across all four workstreams, managing budgets, identifying and responding to funding opportunities, and ensuring projects are delivered effectively and achieve measurable outcomes for wildlife. You will lead and develop a team of technical managers and project leads, strengthening collaboration across the portfolio and identifying opportunities for greater alignment and shared impact. Working closely with colleagues across Sussex Wildlife Trust, as well as partners, funders, communities and statutory stakeholders, you will help unlock opportunities for innovation, influence and investment, delivering lasting change for nature across Sussex. You will also deputise for the Head of Nature Recovery when required.
The Person
We are looking for someone who can combine strategic thinking with practical delivery. You will be skilled at managing multiple priorities, maintaining focus on measurable outcomes for wildlife, and navigating complex projects with confidence and clarity. As part of a team of passionate conservationists, you will build strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and act as an ambassador for some of Sussex Wildlife Trust’s most innovative and inspiring work. You will be an experienced programme leader, confident in managing and developing people with compassion, support and accountability. You will have a strong track record of delivering projects and programmes within budget and of identifying opportunities to align work across teams, projects and partnerships to maximise impact. You will be committed to fostering a collaborative culture, building expertise within the team, and ensuring that both wellbeing and nature recovery remain at the heart of delivery.
Benefits
- Hybrid and Flexible Working – Supporting healthy work-life balance through flexible working arrangements where role requirements operationally allow.
- 25 Days Annual Leave – Plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 5 years' service; entitlement pro rata part-time.
- Pension Contributions – With an optional salary sacrifice scheme to help maximise your retirement savings.
- Life Assurance - Pension Scheme members receive 2x salary cover; non-members receive 1x salary cover.
- Health Cash Plan – helping towards the cost of everyday healthcare expenses.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – Providing confidential support, advice and wellbeing resources.
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Helping you save money while supporting a healthier and more sustainable commute.
- Volunteering Days – Dedicated two days paid to support causes and communities that matter to you.
- Café Discount – Enjoy discounted food and drinks at our Rye Harbour Discovery Centre cafe.
For more detailed information see what we offer page in the Recruitment Pack. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may close the vacancy early so please get your application in as soon as possible.
Wilder Projects Programme Manager in Brighton employer: Sussex Wildlife Trust
At Sussex Wildlife Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Located in the vibrant city of Brighton, we offer a supportive culture that encourages innovation and collaboration, alongside generous benefits such as 25 days of holiday, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for personal growth. Join us in our mission to protect local wildlife and engage with communities, where your passion for inclusion can truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Wilder Projects Programme Manager in Brighton
✨Get Involved Locally
Dive into local volunteer opportunities or social initiatives. This not only beefs up your CV but also connects you with like-minded folks in nonprofits. Plus, it shows your passion for social impact, which is key for getting noticed by Sussex Wildlife Trust.
✨Tap into Professional Networks
Join networks like the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) or local charities to meet professionals in the sector. Attend events and workshops to build relationships and learn about potential openings at organisations like Sussex Wildlife Trust.
✨Showcase Your Commitment
When prepping for interviews, be ready to speak about your personal connection to social issues. Dive into specific examples of how you’ve contributed to community projects – this will resonate with the mission-driven vibe at Sussex Wildlife Trust.
✨Utilise Online Platforms
We’re all about making connections, so use platforms like Idealist and CharityJob to hunt for full-time roles. And of course, you should keep an eye on our website for exciting opportunities at Sussex Wildlife Trust. Apply directly through us to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Wilder Projects Programme Manager in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the nonprofit sector, it's super important to demonstrate genuine passion for the mission of Sussex Wildlife Trust. Use your cover letter to showcase any personal experiences or volunteer work that connects you to their social impact initiatives. This emotional connection can really help your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, be sure to include any relevant projects or roles that showcase your skills in social impact. Whether it's community organising, fundraising, or advocacy, highlight what you've done and the difference it's made. Don’t just list tasks; quantify your achievements and the outcomes of your efforts.
Tailor Your Documents to the Role:For a full-time role like Wilder Projects Programme Manager, ensure your CV and cover letter specifically address the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use their language to describe your skills and experience, making it easy for the hiring team to see how you fit into their vision.
Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration:Nonprofits thrive on teamwork, so make sure to emphasise your collaborative experiences. Whether you've worked in a team setting, partnered with community organisations, or facilitated group projects, highlight these experiences in your application. Show them you understand the importance of working alongside diverse individuals to achieve shared goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sussex Wildlife Trust
✨Show Your Passion for Social Change
When we’re prepping for interviews in the nonprofit space, it's vital to demonstrate our genuine passion for social impact. Be ready to discuss not just your skills and experiences but also why you care about the mission of Sussex Wildlife Trust. Sharing personal stories or insights can really make us stand out.
✨Highlight Project Experience
We should focus on specific projects we've worked on that align with the goals of social impact. Whether that’s a community initiative, volunteering, or a class project, having solid examples that showcase our role and the outcomes will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarity with Relevant Tools and Practices
Let’s brush up on tools and methodologies commonly used in the nonprofit sector, like project management software or outcome measurement frameworks. Being able to speak fluently about these will show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that evaluate our problem-solving skills in real-world social issues. Think about how we’d handle challenges in the nonprofit environment and prepare stories that demonstrate our critical thinking and adaptability. Role-playing with a friend could help us feel more confident!
