Head of Land Management
John Muir Trust
Lead the future of Wild Places in Scotland
The John Muir Trust is the UK’s only charity dedicated solely to protecting Wild Places. We care for some of the most iconic landscapes in the country – from Ben Nevis to the Cuillin on Skye – and we demonstrate how land can be managed in ways that allow natural processes to thrive while sustaining the communities who live alongside them.
We are seeking an experienced Head of Land Management to lead our property teams across 25,000 hectares. This is a rare opportunity to combine practical land management with strategic leadership, showcasing best practice in caring for Wild Places and inspiring others across the UK.
About the role
You will:
- Lead staff and contractors in the day-to-day stewardship of our land.
- Deliver best practice in deer management, regenerative grazing, peatland and woodland restoration, path networks, wildfire response, and invasive species control.
- Ensure each property demonstrates how Wild Places can flourish for nature, climate and people.
- Work closely with communities, crofters, and partners, ensuring the Trust is a progressive and responsible landholder.
- Integrate visitor experience, volunteering, and engagement into our land work.
- Report on performance and outcomes that contribute to our wider strategic objectives.
About you
You will bring:
- Senior experience of managing large, ecologically significant landscapes.
- Strong leadership skills, able to motivate and manage diverse teams and partners.
- A deep understanding of ecology and land use in the Highlands, with a commitment to protecting and restoring natural processes.
- The ability to work with communities, resolve disputes, and build constructive partnerships.
- Vision to link practical land management with wider advocacy for Wild Places.
Why join us?
This role offers the chance to shape the future of Scotland’s Wild Places at a time of climate and biodiversity crisis. You will have the support of a passionate and committed team, and the opportunity to demonstrate leadership in land management that inspires others across the UK.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
Location: Highlands, with regular travel to properties
Salary: from £39,412, dependent on experience
Contract: Permanent, full time
For the full job specification and further information click apply now.
We look forward to hearing from you.
About The John Muir Trust
The John Muir Trust is a community focused conservation charity dedicated to the experience, protection and repair of wild places across the UK.
Founded in 1983, we care for some of the finest wild places in the UK, including Ben Nevis, Helvellyn and Sandwood Bay. Over 25,000 members, supporters and partners contribute to our work.
The John Muir Trust is a community focused conservation charity dedicated to the experience, protection and repair of wild places across the UK. Founded in 1983, we care for some of the finest wild places in the UK, including Ben Nevis, Helvellyn and Sandwood Bay. Over 25,000 members, supporters and partners contribute to our work.
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