Head of Forestry – Scotland or Northern England
A leading UK forestry and land‑management organisation is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Head of Forestry to oversee and expand its forestry operations across Scotland or Northern England. This senior appointment comes at a time of significant growth in the sector, with rising demand for woodland creation, commercial forestry investment, and nature‑based solutions such as carbon and biodiversity projects.
The Role
The successful candidate will take on a high‑profile leadership position, responsible for:
- Managing a diverse portfolio of woodland and forestry assets - ranging from large commercial forests to mixed amenity woodlands - and guiding long‑term strategic planning.
- Delivering forestry services including afforestation, forest management, restocking, and overseeing harvesting operations
- Providing expert advice on investment forestry and identifying acquisition opportunities in Scotland and Northern England
- Leading on carbon and natural‑capital‑driven opportunities, reflecting the sector’s continued shift toward climate and biodiversity priorities
- Building strong relationships with landowners, estates, investors, and wider rural stakeholders.
- Managing budgets, reporting to senior stakeholders, and ensuring projects are delivered to high professional standards.
Candidate Profile
You will excel in this role if you bring:
- Significant experience in forestry management, including planning, operational oversight, and strategic asset care.
- A strong understanding of carbon markets, natural capital, and emerging woodland‑based environmental opportunities.
- The confidence and communication skills to lead client relationships, engage with stakeholders, and represent the organisation at a senior level.
- The ability to analyse forestry data, prepare valuations, and identify commercial opportunities across the region
- Professional forestry qualifications or chartership (e.g., ICF membership) - desirable but not essential for outstanding candidates with deep sector experience.
Why This Role?
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior forestry leadership position at a pivotal time for the industry. With interest in woodland creation, carbon sequestration, and natural capital at unprecedented levels, the successful candidate will help steer a growing team and shape the future of forestry across the UK.
How to Apply
If you are an ambitious forestry professional looking to lead, influence, and grow within a dynamic, forward‑thinking environment, we would be delighted to hear from you.