Cumbria Woodlands is a not-for-profit organisation launched in 1991 in response to widespread concern over the neglected state of the County’s woodlands. Our aim is for woodlands to be managed and improved in order for them to thrive and to be economically and ecologically sustainable so we can get the most from them. The work of Cumbria Woodlands today has expanded to include regional and national advice and advocacy, input into policy development, training and professional development. However, we remain committed to and prioritise our roots of promoting appropriate woodland management. We provide advice, support and training to woodland owners, organisations and people who own, work in or manage woodlands.
The role
We are looking for a Deputy Director to be a part of us and be help us grow organically. We are excited about opportunities for Cumbria woodlands and our focus on woodland management to make a real contribution to some of the country’s biggest issues. This includes, but may not be limited to; responding to our climate emergency with a step change in woodland management, influencing the “payment for public goods” agenda, working across sectors on training and professional development. The person will be able to spot opportunities and develop responses to meet these.
The Candidate
You will have a proven track record of successful leadership and management coupled with the ability to get the very best from a motivated team of staff.
A natural and charismatic communicator, you will have the diplomacy skills needed to engage and influence diverse audiences.
You should also have experience of generation income, ideally in the not for profit sector, along with a track record of strategic planning and initiating projects.
What you can expect
The chance to make a difference, the chance to live in a wonderful place, with very flexible working arrangements. A chance to rebalance your work and life. We are initially offering a 2 year, fixed term employed contract, with the possibility for extension The rest of the team are part time and range from 2 to 3 days per week to 4 days per week term time only.
More information
Job Description
Email our director Neville Elstone at neville@cumbriawoodlands.co.uk to arrange a suitable time for an informal discussion about the role.
We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applicants from all sectors of society. If you are an applicant with disabilities who meets the essential requirements of the job, we will interview you.
Please apply with your CV and a covering letter, of no more than two pages, outlining your skills and experiences to meet the requirements of the role described in the attached job description, why you want to work for Cumbria Woodlands and your availability to start.
We are also interested in secondments from like-minded organisations, particularly where someone is looking to build their skills and enhance their career in the areas outlined in the job description. Please discuss this with your employer first to ensure they are supportive of your secondment application.
We anticipate a formal interview for the long list via Zoom or Teams followed by a socially distanced walk in the woods for those shortlisted.
