JOB PURPOSE:

To lead and manage all forestry operations across the estate, ensuring the sustainable management of woodland resources in accordance with UK Forestry Standards, environmental legislation, and estate goals. This includes silviculture, woodland planning, conservation, and commercial timber production and management of large woodland improvement grant scheme.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Planning & Management:
• Develop and implement long-term forest management plans.
• Oversee woodland creation, replanting, thinning, and harvesting schedules.
• Ensure compliance with UKFS, FSC, PEFC, and other applicable certification schemes.
• Operational Oversight:
• Manage all forestry operations including ground preparation, planting, protection, and harvesting.
• Supervise and coordinate forestry staff, contractors, and consultants.
• Ensure best practices in health & safety, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship.
• Budget & Resource Management:
• Develop and manage operational budgets.
• Monitor forest asset performance and optimize timber yield and quality.
• Source and manage funding (e.g. grants, government schemes such as ELMS).
• Stakeholder Engagement:
• Liaise with regulatory bodies including the Forestry Commission, Natural England, and local authorities.
• Represent the estate at meetings, public events, and industry forums.
• Communicate with landowners, community groups, and conservation partners.
• Conservation & Sustainability:
• Promote biodiversity, and habitat restoration.
• Integrate conservation priorities with commercial operations.
• Lead responses to climate change impacts on forest health and productivity.