Senior Ecology Lead - Principal Ecologist to Associate / Technical / Regional Director

About Lanpro

Lanpro is a market leading multi-disciplinary consultancy specializing in environment led planning and design. We work on projects at all scales within town, semi-rural and rural contexts, across a variety of sectors that includes residential, historic sites and estates, renewable energy, infrastructure and mixed use commercial developments.

Job Summary

We are seeking experienced and driven candidates for a senior lead role (title to be agreed, dependent on experience). The successful candidate will play a key senior leadership role within our Ecology team in the North. They will be strategic, be client facing, responsible for leading regional delivery, driving business growth, and providing technical direction across a diverse project portfolio. The role is ideal for an established leader looking to shape and grow an ecology team, influence project outcomes at a strategic level, and contribute to the continued success of a multidisciplinary consultancy. The position will ideally be based in our York office, with responsibility for leading and expanding our ecology presence across the North of England and beyond. Travel to other offices and project sites will be required as part of the role.

Responsibilities

• Lead and build the northern ecology team, providing mentorship, technical oversight and strategic direction
• Act as a technical authority across key disciplines including EcIA, HRA, and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
• Oversee and deliver high quality ecological input into complex, multidisciplinary projects
• Manage and build client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and identifying opportunities for growth
• Provide expert witness support where required, including Public Inquiries and Hearings
• Lead on project delivery, ensuring quality, programme and financial targets are met
• Support bid preparation, tendering and framework opportunities
• Collaborate across disciplines to deliver integrated, innovative solutions
• Contribute to the development of new services, technical standards and best practice
• Represent the company at industry events, strengthening brand and market presence

Essential Requirements

• Degree (or equivalent) in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline
• Extensive experience in ecological consultancy, including leadership or senior management roles
• Proven track record in delivering large scale and complex projects (e.g., infrastructure, energy, or major residential schemes)
• Strong technical expertise in:
  • Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
  • Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)
  • Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
• Demonstrable experience in managing teams, resources and project finances
• Experience acting in a client facing role, with strong relationship management skills
• Excellent report writing and technical review capabilities
• Sound knowledge of UK planning policy, legislation and best practice
• Full membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIEEM)
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel

Desirable Requirements

• Protected species licences (e.g., bat survey licence)
• NSIP experience
• Experience acting as an Expert Witness
• Strong commercial awareness and experience contributing to business development strategy
• Experience working within multidisciplinary consultancy environments

EEO Statement

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in each person's potential, and we'll help you reach yours.

Benefits

• Enhanced Annual Leave entitlement (Day One)
• Death in service cover
• Centrally based City offices
• Hybrid working environment (flexible work)
• Protected CPD (Department, individual and company wide)
• Professional Body membership contribution
• Enhanced Company pension
• Career progression framework and development, including two defined promotion windows annually.
• E Learning portal access
• Non contractual growth bonus scheme
• Loyalty Leave (Continuous Service Accrued Annual Leave up to 5 days) - After Probation and Beyond
• Vitality Health Care - Private Medical Insurance
• Discounted Gym membership
• Discounts and perks - Amazon Prime, Free Odeon Cinema tickets, Apple benefits and Cafe Nero
• Employee Assistance Program - including Financial and Mental Health support from external expertise
• BUPA Cash Plan
• Cycle to work scheme