An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Resident Head Forester, with on-site accommodation provided, to lead the sustainable management of the Estate’s woodland resource.

This is a senior, hands-on leadership role with responsibility for forestry operations, contractor management, compliance, and strategic woodland development. Key aspects of the role include:

The role

• Continuing to restructure the Estate’s woodlands in accordance with CCF
• Maintaining and updating the established Whole Forest Inventory
• Playing a key role in the Estate’s progressive and nationally recognised approach to deer management
• Ensuring compliance with the Estate’s Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification
• Oversee the operation of the Estate’s wood fuel operations

Key priorities

• Lead the continued transformation of the Estate’s woodlands under CCF principles
• Oversee timber production and commercial forestry operations
• Ensure compliance with UKFS and FSC certification
• Maintain and develop the Estate’s forest inventory and management plans
• Contribute to wider Estate objectives including conservation and deer management

Person specification

Essential

• Degree in Forestry, Forest Management, or a related discipline.
• Professional membership of the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF), or working towards
• Strong experience in woodland management (estate or commercial)
• Proven experience in Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) systems.
• Experience managing contractors and forestry operations
• Full UK driving licence

Technical

• Experience with GIS/mapping software (QGIS, ArcGIS, or similar).
• Ability to complete drone surveys and process imagery for forest management purposes.
• Strong understanding of:
  • Continuous Cover Forestry
  • UK Forestry Standard (UKFS)
  • Environmental and forestry legislation
  • FSC certification systems
  • Woodland ecology and biodiversity enhancement
• Strong IT skills, including data management and report writing.
• Chainsaw Certification

Desirable

• Experience in deer management
• Deer Stalking Certification Level 1
• Experience working in a private Estate environment
• Knowledge of grant schemes and regulatory processes

Personable attributes

• Practical, organised, and proactive
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• High professional standards and accountability
• Comfortable working and living in a rural estate environment

Terms and conditions

• Contract: Full‑time, permanent
• Accommodation: Suitable Estate accommodation provided (on-site residence requited)
• Vehicle: Estate vehicle provided for work duties
• Pension: Employer pension scheme
• Health Insurance: Private health insurance
• Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience
• Other Benefits: Training support, professional membership fees, and access to Estate amenities (where applicable)