Associate Director - Ecology

Associate Director - Ecology

Leeds | Hybrid Working
£55,000 - £65,000 + Car Allowance + Benefits

An established multidisciplinary environmental consultancy is seeking an Associate Director - Ecology to play a key role in the continued growth of its ecology team across the North of England.

This is an opportunity for an experienced ecology professional to take ownership of complex projects, develop client relationships, drive business growth and mentor a growing team, whilst working on a diverse portfolio of high-profile development and infrastructure schemes.

The Role

As an Associate Director, you will combine technical expertise with commercial and strategic leadership responsibilities, supporting projects across sectors including:

• Residential and mixed-use development
• Commercial and industrial schemes
• Infrastructure and transport
• Aviation
• Data centres and logistics
• Urban regeneration and greening projects

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, provide strategic ecological advice, oversee project delivery and act as a trusted advisor to clients throughout the planning and development process.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of complex ecology projects from inception through to completion.
• Act as Project Director and Technical Lead on major commissions.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships.
• Identify opportunities for repeat business and new project wins.
• Oversee project finances, forecasting and commercial performance.
• Review and sign off technical reports and ecological deliverables.
• Provide leadership, mentoring and support to ecologists across all levels.
• Work closely with planners, engineers, landscape architects and environmental specialists to deliver integrated solutions.

The Person

You will possess:

• Significant ecological consultancy experience.
• Strong knowledge of EcIA, BNG, HRA and UK wildlife legislation.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary projects and project teams.
• Excellent stakeholder and client management skills.
• Commercial awareness and a track record of managing profitable projects.
• Experience supporting business development and work-winning activities.
• Membership of CIEEM (or eligibility to obtain membership).
• A full UK driving licence.

What's on Offer?

• Salary of £55,000 - £65,000
• Car Allowance
• Hybrid working arrangement
• Clear progression pathway
• Opportunity to influence regional growth strategy
• Diverse and technically challenging project portfolio
• Supportive and collaborative multidisciplinary environment
• Ongoing professional development and leadership opportunities

This position would suit an established Principal Ecologist, Technical Director, or existing Associate Director looking to take the next step within a growing and well-respected environmental consultancy.