The Orkney Native Wildlife Project started in 2018 and is a partnership between RSPB Scotland, NatureScot and Orkney Islands Council.

Its purpose is to work with local communities and landowners to undertake the world’s largest stoat eradication operation and safeguard the unique and internationally important native wildlife of Orkney and its thriving wildlife tourism industry.

Stoats were first reported in Orkney in 2010 and their presence threatens a variety of species including the unique Orkney vole, hen harriers, short-eared owls, red-throated divers, waders and seabirds which attract wildlife enthusiasts all year round making a significant contribution to the local economy

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) and EU LIFE alongside partner contributions the project is now in a key implementation stage and we are looking for a strong leader with extensive experience in delivering results through people.

Key deliverables of the role are

• Managing a multidisciplinary team to deliver project objectives, developing the skills and capabilities of the team (and self) towards high performance, celebrating successes and promoting the RSPB’s values and positive culture at all times
• Responsibility for ensuring the work of the team is delivered following RSPB and partner procedures and funder requirements in order to manage financial and reputational risk and contribute to suitable mitigations.
• Responsibility for project contribution to papers and reports for partners, the project steering group project board and technical advisory group.
• Responsibility for effective stakeholder management that facilitates collaborative external and internal relationships with appropriate stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery
• Monitor and oversee management of the project budget so that financial targets are met

Essential Criteria

• Demonstrable experience of management and development of multidisciplinary teams
• Visible, inspiring and effective leadership, engaging and motivating employees and volunteers
• Demonstrated ability to provide advice and interpretation of policy and procedures associated with project management
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present, influence and represent the project
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnership with others to achieve shared outcomes
• Project management skills to manage project delivery, manage risks, costs, time and project teams
• Ability to lead change and work under pressure to deliver time sensitive outputs
• Experience of working with local communities in a collaborative and diplomatic way
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions
• Logical & methodical, analytical and a good eye for detail
• Experience of working in wildlife conservation
• Competent user of Microsoft office

Desirable Criteria

• Knowledge of the RSPB and its mission.
• Qualification in project management
• Understanding of and experience of delivering invasive non-native species eradications
• Experience of working with landowners and living in a rural community