Associate Director - Ecology

Associate Director – Ecology (Scotland)

Location: Edinburgh or Glasgow (Hybrid)
Salary: £58,000–£65,000
Contract: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week

About the Role

We are partnering with a leading environmental and planning consultancy known for its commitment to creating better futures for people, nature and place. As an employee-owned, purpose-driven organisation with a strong UK-wide presence, they are now seeking an Associate Director of Ecology to help lead and grow their ecology services across Scotland and Northern England.

This is a key senior role within a respected multidisciplinary team. You’ll support strategic direction, guide talented ecologists and ornithologists, and contribute to some of the UK’s most high-profile and rewarding environmental projects. The role is based in Edinburgh or Glasgow, with flexible hybrid working and occasional travel.

About the Consultancy

With over 60 years of experience, this consultancy has built a national reputation for excellence in environmental planning, landscape architecture, ecology and sustainability. Their Ecology team operates across six UK offices, delivering work in renewable energy, infrastructure, conservation, heritage and green/blue infrastructure.

Following the launch of an ambitious new strategy, the organisation is investing significantly in people and capability. This role offers the chance to influence ecological direction, shape team culture and contribute to long-term business growth.

Key Responsibilities

As part of the Ecology Leadership Team, you will:

• Support the strategic development and delivery of ecology services across Scotland and Northern England
• Contribute to team planning, resource management and business development
• Mentor and support a growing team of ecologists and ornithologists
• Champion high standards in ecological survey, assessment and project delivery
• Oversee a portfolio of consultancy projects, ensuring quality, performance and profitability
• Represent the organisation at industry events and contribute to sector best practice
• Help shape scientific, technical and operational standards across the ecology discipline

About You

We’re looking for a confident, credible senior ecologist with strong consultancy experience and a passion for delivering nature-positive outcomes.

Essential requirements:

• Extensive UK ecological consultancy experience, including senior or team-lead responsibilities
• Proven ability to lead teams, develop business and secure new work
• Strong understanding of UK ecological survey methods, planning policy and legislation - particularly in Scotland
• Excellent communication, commercial awareness and project management skills
• Eligibility to live and work in the UK

What’s on Offer

This is an opportunity to join a values-led, employee-owned consultancy at a senior level, with the autonomy to shape your role and influence strategic direction.

You will benefit from:

• £58,000–£65,000 salary (DOE)
• Flexible working, including part-time options (minimum 30 hours/week)
• Participation in the Employee Ownership Trust, giving you a direct stake in the business
• A collaborative, inclusive and supportive culture
• Opportunities to lead nationally significant projects
• Strong professional development and long-term career progression

Next Steps

Your personal data is important to us. Your CV will not be shared without a confidential conversation about the role and the organisation, and you are under no obligation to proceed.

If you’re ready to take a senior role within a purpose-driven consultancy and help shape the future of ecological practice in the UK, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV via the link provided, and we’ll be in touch shortly.