We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and organised conservation land manager with a passion for nature to lead the RSPB Berney Marshes and Breydon Water Nature Reserves. These sites support the most important breeding lapwing, redshank and avocet populations in the Broads National Park, plus bittern, marsh harrier and other wetland species. In winter they attract over 100,000 wintering waterbirds - wigeon, pink-footed geese, golden plover, lapwing, black-tailed godwits. Could you be person who will the lead development of the ecological management over the next 5 years? 

As Site Manager you will: 
•    Manage day to day site operations to achieve objectives for habitats and species, people, finance, and legal compliance.
•    Lead and develop the reserve staff (warden and assistant warden) and volunteer team.
•    Be responsible for the review (in 2024), update and implementation of reserve management plans.
•    Act as the main point of contact for the local community, neighbours, and other external parties in order to build and maintain good relationships.
•    Work within the local leadership team to develop team operations across reserves in The Broads. 
•    Enjoy the support of a very experienced local team, Ecologists, a Rural Surveyor, Safety Advisor and other specialist RSPB staff.    

You are likely to have a background in reserve management, other roles in the conservation sector or farming that give you a comparable skillset.


Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 
•    Knowledge of principles and practices of managing land for nature conservation objectives.
•    Knowledge of relevant habitats and species ecology.
•    Knowledge of conservation grazing and water management techniques.
•    Habitat and estate management skills relevant to wet grassland habitat.
•    Understanding of legal compliance associated with managing a nature reserve.
•    Ability to plan and prioritise a complex work programme. 
•    You will be able to demonstrate a track record of managing people (contractors, staff, volunteers).
•    Confidence and communication skills appropriate to build relationships with farmers, speak publicly and work effectively in teams.
•    A suitable licence allowing you to drive a car/utility vehicle on UK public roads.
•    Competent IT user (e.g., MS packages, Outlook etc).


Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:
•    Skills and knowledge to conduct breeding and non-breeding surveys.
•    Competence and certification as a tractor operator. 
•    Experience of budget management, procurement and contract management.
•    A degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. 
•    Knowledge of predator management in lowland wetlands

*We will be holding two virtual open briefing sessions during this recruitment, where you can learn more about this role and ask any questions you may have. These dates are – Thursday 6 July at 18:30 and Friday 7 July at 13:00. For a link to this open briefing, please get in touch with tim.strudwick@rspb.org.uk 

This is a Permanent, Full-Time role for 37.5 hours per week.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position during week commencing 24 July 2023. For further information please contact tim.strudwick@rspb.org.uk.

As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.