Site Manager - Lake Vyrnwy

This is an exciting opportunity to take on a leadership role at one of the RSPB’s largest reserves, based on and around the Lake Vyrnwy estate. The reserve covers a predominantly upland landscape, home to internationally important habitats within a strategically significant water catchment.

It is a complex and rewarding site, with an ambitious programme of habitat restoration that includes extensive peatland rewetting and large-scale tree establishment.

As Site Manager, you will work alongside the Farm Manager and Senior Site Manager to deliver the reserve’s conservation objectives. These focus on the recovery of habitats and ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on priority species such as Hen Harrier, Black Grouse and Merlin. You will lead part of the reserve team and work collaboratively with colleagues and external partners to balance conservation delivery with other vital outcomes, including community engagement and an integrated, nature-friendly farming system.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the long-term vision for the reserve, including development of management plans.
• Recruit, lead, and support staff to deliver key site objectives.
• Plan and manage a wide range of on-site operations, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.
• Oversee the reserve’s budget, ensuring financial accountability and alignment with objectives.
• Secure external funding through subsidies and grants, working closely with fundraising and other teams.
• Manage small and medium-sized projects to ensure successful and timely delivery.
• Act as a key point of contact for the local community and stakeholders, building strong relationships and representing the RSPB positively.

What We’re Looking For

• Knowledge of the ecological requirements of relevant upland habitats and species.
• Understanding of land management in a water catchment, including awareness of the Welsh legislative context.
• Strong project management skills, with experience overseeing contractors and delivering conservation outcomes.
• Proven ability to manage operations safely, effectively, and in line with regulatory requirements.
• Experience of conservation grazing and an understanding of its role within upland farming systems.
• Experience of engaging with communities and stakeholders in a rural setting.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and work collaboratively.
• Demonstrable leadership experience in managing staff, volunteers, and resources to achieve outcomes.

* Please note that a valid drivers license is required for this role.

Why Join Us?

Lake Vyrnwy is at the forefront of upland conservation and land management issues. Over the past decade, we have made significant progress in habitat restoration, farming innovation, and community involvement. This role offers a rare chance to take a leading position in shaping the next chapter.

Additional Information

• Fixed-term role until August 2027, 37.5 hrs per week. Extension beyond may be possible.
• For more information contact [email protected]

As part of this application process you will be asked to upload a CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.