Project Manager

We are seeking an experienced and driven project manager to lead the delivery of NNF5 Menai-Connecting Coasts, a two-year development phase, seascape scale, recovery project delivered in partnership by ZSL and Bangor University, with funding from the Nature Networks Fund. The project aims to develop a long-term, seascape-scale restoration partnership project, to recover priority marine habitats in and surrounding the Mena Strait and Conwy Bay SAC, in North Wales. This project directly contributes to achieve the objective of habitat restoration in the ZSL 200 strategy.

As project manager you will develop and coordinate a multi-partner seascape planning process; lead the co-development of a costed 5-10 year Seascape Restoration Plan and oversee targeted ecological monitoring and small-scale native oyster restoration trials. You will work with an Engagement Officer based at Bangor University, to deliver inclusive community engagement, citizen science, and bilingual outreach to ensure that local people, fishers, and key stakeholders help shape a shared vision for habitat recovery. This role is central to generating high quality ecological evidence, ensuring meaningful and equitable participation, and establishing a strong long term partnership model that supports ZSL’s Seascape Recovery Programme and advances marine habitat restoration in North Wales.

This role is offered on a part-time basis, working 22.5 hours per week with a pro-rated salary of £20,442.24.

• Partnerships & Co-Creation: Build and maintain strong relationships with partners, communities, fishers, regulators, and stakeholders to co-develop a costed 5-10 year Seascape Restoration Plan; lead meetings, workshops, and steering groups.
• Data, Research & GIS: Compile and analyse datasets, source new evidence, and manage a GIS database to inform and strengthen restoration planning.
• Project Delivery & Management: Oversee project activities and deliverables, ensuring work is delivered on time, within scope and budget, and aligned with funder requirements; support ongoing development of project objectives.
• Communications & Engagement: Promote the project to a wide range of audiences; deliver bilingual communications (press releases, social media, digital content) in collaboration with communications teams.
• Compliance & Governance: Ensure all activities meet environmental legislation, marine licensing, and best practice standards; manage contracts and agreements with partners and contributors.
• Reporting, Finance & Funding: Produce high-quality technical and donor reports; manage budgets, forecasting, and procurement; maintain funder relationships and secure additional funding to scale and sustain the project.

Experience managing and delivering marine or coastal habitat recovery projects, including responsibility for project budgets, forecasting, reporting, and procurement. Educated to MSc degree level in marine conservation, social science, environmental science or related subject area, or equivalent qualification, or demonstrate such a level of equivalent qualifications and experience through relevant practical work experience. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and delegate effectively. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with experience working with Welsh-speaking stakeholders or within a Welsh context, and proficiency in Microsoft Office packages, particularly Excel and PowerPoint (or equivalent). Knowledge of coastal habitat restoration approaches and seascape-scale conservation principles. High levels of motivation, initiative and enthusiasm to deliver project outcomes and develop future opportunities. Willingness to travel regularly to field sites and attend meetings, including occasional evenings and weekends. A full driving license is required for this role.

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.

• Purpose driven work – join an organisation where every role contributes to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
• Pension scheme – we offer a generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
• Flexible working – talk to us about your flexible working requirements and we will do everything we can to make sure you work in a way that suits you.
• Holidays – 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays (increasing with milestone anniversaries).
• Access to ZSL’s staff Equality Networks – Race & Culture, Team Pride, Disability, and Menopause, supporting an inclusive and welcoming workplace for those with lived experience.
• Wellbeing – access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Life assurance – eligible employees will be enrolled in ZSL’s life assurance scheme from their first day.
• Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30% discount in online and retail shops.
• Cycle2Work – our cycle to work scheme enables you to lease a bicycle.
• Season ticket loan – we offer an interest free loan for eligible London-based employees to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work.
• Family friendly policies – we offer enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages.