Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist / Ecology Team Lead

Salary: £50,000 per annum + bonus + benefits
Location: Fully remote (UK-based)

A well-established, independent environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist / Team Lead to take a central role in leading and growing its ecology function.

This is a unique opportunity to inherit a strong and stable platform, with an existing turnover of approximately £500,000, supported by three repeat blue-chip clients, and clear potential to scale the division beyond £1 million.

The Role

Reporting directly to senior leadership, you will take ownership of a small but high-performing ecology team, driving both technical excellence and commercial growth.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing technical leadership and oversight on ecological projects
• Leading, mentoring, and developing a growing team (currently 4, with plans to expand to ~8)
• Supporting business development, including strengthening existing relationships and securing new opportunities
• Working collaboratively to establish two major framework agreements within the next year
• Managing key client relationships and contributing to strategic business growth
• Ensuring high-quality deliverables across surveys, assessments and reporting

While this is primarily a leadership role, you will remain hands-on where required, contributing to project work and maintaining technical credibility.

About You

You will be an experienced and driven ecologist with a passion for leadership and growth.

Key requirements:

• Full CIEEM membership (MCIEEM/FCIEEM)
• Strong technical background, ideally with a recognised specialism (particularly botany or ornithology)
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage projects
• Experience in client development and business growth
• Strong communication and collaborative working style

Experience or connections within the renewable energy sector would be highly advantageous.

Growth & Leadership Opportunity

This role offers significant scope to shape the future of the ecology team. You will play a key role in:

• Expanding the team, including recruitment and mentoring
• Strengthening market presence and developing new service lines
• Driving forward a clear and achievable growth strategy

Benefits

• Annual salary of £50,000
• Performance-related bonus
• Access to company vehicles
• Private medical insurance
• NEST pension scheme
• Fully remote working

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious ecologist looking to step into a leadership role with real influence, autonomy, and a clear path for growth.