Applications open until Tuesday, 19 July 

About the role:

In December 2019, The Tree Council was appointed to deliver Network Rail's exciting £1million commitment to plant trees in communities across the UK between 2020 - 2024.

We’re looking for an experienced Project Manager, with minimum three years’ experience managing tree planting programmes in the field, to manage the second half of this wonderful programme. You must be able to show a deep understanding of tree works, tree establishment and tree care, such as an arboricultural qualification grade 4, or a degree in a closely related discipline, or extensive employment in a related topic or equivalent. You must also possess excellent people skills and be inspired by the idea of working in a small, ambitious team, in a fast-paced environment.

The job involves developing strategy and liaison with a wide variety of stakeholders, including local authorities, local communities, partnership conservation and environmental organisations, and our volunteer tree wardens. Planting may include some broadleaf woodland, but is likely to focus on trees outside of woodlands, including hedges, urban trees, orchards and some small, mixed, community initiatives. You will be responsible for identifying locations with the help of the wider team, project delivery, managing budgets, preparing regular reports for Network Rail and evaluating annually with an independent consultant. You will travel around the country and be prepared to work some weekends and evenings.

In 2022/23, the third year of the programme, there are approximately 17 projects in the pipeline for delivery this coming winter, and the post holder will be expected to pick up on work already underway to develop these projects in time for tree planting season, from the end of November to March.

This role will also support The Tree Council’s Director of Trees, Science & Research on other Network Rail related activities as needed. Specifically, this will be to support our ‘Critical Friend’ relationship with Network Rail as well as advisory role to Government, local authorities and other partners. You will also be required to input to science and research projects, communications campaigns, and various community and specialist events around the country.

You will be at the heart of this transformational programme where active communication, attention to detail and determination will be vital to success. You will also work closely with the equivalent post holder across the Southern area.

Apply at: https://www.environmentjob.co.uk/jobs/89014-head-of-major-tree-planting-projects