Contracts Manager - Wales

Coed Cadw (the Woodland Trust in Wales) is seeking a Contracts Manager until end August 2028 to cover a secondment.

The Contracts Manager is a key role in Wales, which will work alongside our Site Managers primarily on our own Estate but may also support our Outreach team as required. The role will be responsible for supporting the planning, preparation, recording and delivery of a wide range of forest management operations across Wales.

The Role

• You will be responsible for working with colleagues to plan, specify, tender, procure and supervise implementation of an identified programme of land management works on the Estate to the highest professional standard (ensuring full compliance with our FSC certification and FISA guidance) and in accordance with all Woodland Trust Health and Safety policies and procedures.
• You will ensure that all necessary agreements, mitigations and consents are in place in preparation for the delivery of contracts for which you are responsible: e.g. planning consents, felling licences, access agreements, EPS & other species consents, EIAs, etc.
• You will ensure best value for money when procuring contracts; identifying opportunities to streamline and increase efficiency through packaging works into multi-site & multi-year contracts; seeking opportunities to maximise the income and grant aid potential of programmed operations and maintaining accurate financial forecasts. Where relevant, you will support with financial and impact reporting related to funded works.
• You will support with timber mensuration, data gathering and tree safety survey work and action as required across our Estate and Outreach projects.
• You will contribute to the improvement and development of Trust processes and standards.
• You will engage with key stakeholders, both internal and external, relating to our land management programme.
• This is a fixed term contract until end of August 2028.
• A company car will be provided for this role.

The Candidate

• You’ll have an enthusiasm for the environment and share our core values-Grow Together, Explore, Focus and Make it Count
  
  We are looking for candidates who have the following:
  
• Experienced in taking land management or forestry contracts through from planning to delivery, knowing how to comply with statutory and organisational requirements, keep accurate records and maintain the highest environmental and health and safety standards.
• You will bring knowledge and experience of woodland management, including tree safety, especially in the context of FSC certification and in high nature conservation value sites.
• You will want to build relationships with key internal and external stakeholders and professionally represent the Woodland Trust.
• Be able to focus and manage your time to meet tight deadlines and delivery complex operations on time and on budget, being able to adapt rapidly to site-specific issues and circumstances.
• The role is based in Wales and will require the successful candidate to travel across the country with occasional UK travel. A full driving licence is required.

About Us: The Woodland Trust is the UK's leading woodland conservation charity and is dedicated to creating a world where trees and woods thrive for both people and nature. Our mission involves engaging and inspiring individuals to contribute toward tackling the nature and climate crisis through the protection, restoration, and creation of essential woodland habitats.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: To achieve our vision of a world where woods and trees thrive for people and nature, we need to better reflect society and the communities we work in. All people, no matter their background, identity, ability, or circumstance, should benefit from trees.
People of colour and disabled people are currently under-represented across the environment and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we particularly encourage you to apply.
Please contact us to discuss any additional support or adjustments you may need to complete your application.

Application Advice: Even if you don't meet every requirement of the role, we would encourage you to apply. Your enthusiasm for the environment and our core values-Grow Together, Explore, Focus and Make it Count-are what matter most. We also keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from the hiring managers, so they do not see your CV until shortlisting is completed. Make sure that your Personal Statement clearly shows your experience and passion for the role.

Acceptable Use Policy - Artificial Intelligence (AI): We understand that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their job applications-for example, to help structure or edit written responses. We welcome the use of AI in this way, particularly where it helps improve accessibility, such as for neurodivergent applicants. However, we ask that any information submitted reflects your own experience, skills and understanding. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please contact recruitment@woodlandtrust.org.uk

Apply Now: If you're ready to make a difference and grow with us, send in your application today. We might close the job opening early if we get a lot of applications, so it's a good idea to apply soon. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make a positive impact on our planet.

Interviews will take place via Teams on Thursday 2nd October.

For queries relating to this new opportunity please email recruitment@woodlandtrust.org.uk