Wildlife Manager

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the protection of crop and habitat from wildlife damage. Lead and inspire the New Forest Keeper team to deliver effective deer management operations, maintenance and operation of deer larders (and the presentation of carcasses for sale), in collaboration with Beat Foresters, District Foresters and specialist District leads.
• Take responsibility for the delivery of wildlife management projects and programmes of work as required.
• Promote a positive and inclusive culture in the New Forest Keeper and wider District team and actively foster cross‑functional collaboration and support. As a Line Manager in the Forest District demonstrate and embed our organisational values and behaviours.
• Ensure compliance with organisational guidance and procedures and communicate the importance of working safely, to manage risk across operations for staff, contractors and customers. Embed a culture of continuous improvement, promoting learning and development opportunities amongst the team.
• Provide leadership across the New Forest Keeper team, and deputise for the District Forester, as required, to ensure expertise and continuity in wildlife management.
• Develop and deliver the Districts Wildlife Management strategy, including the district deer cull and the management of other mammals to mitigate damage to crop and habitat.
• Design, manage and execute the programme of operations (Wildlife Management Plan) for the District.
• Ensure effective communication of the programme to colleagues in Land Management and across functions.
• Plan, procure and manage contracts (including Deer Control Licences, volunteers and contractors) to deliver effective wildlife management, and the preparation and sale of carcasses, whilst meeting all relevant guidelines and legislation.
• Efficiently manage resources to enable effective delivery of wildlife management projects, programmes, deer larders and ‘business as usual’ operations.
• Prepare the annual wildlife management business plan, monitor, reforecast and report on budgets and Key Performance Indicators throughout the year.
• Leadership of the New Forest Keeper team and any associated contractors and volunteers.
• Maintain professional and productive relationships with stakeholders across all wildlife management and project interests and work collaboratively with colleagues across the wider district.
• Engage proactively and respond constructively to existing and prospective customers and present the highest standards of professionalism when representing Forestry England.
• And any other tasks, reasonably requested by your line manager.