We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Project Manager to lead our England Twite Recovery Project with the aim of recovering this locally threatened Twite population.

The England Twite Recovery Project marks the evolution of a 16-year project dedicating to saving this iconic species, known locally as the Pennine Finch. Once widespread and locally abundant in the uplands, the Twite has declined to almost extinction in England, and through previous year’s work we now have a better understanding as to why. 

The project will target intervention measures addressing the main limiting factors identified through population modelling work. Working with our Conservation Science department, we will carefully evaluate all previous intervention measures to date to better understand the species responses over time.

The successful candidate will have proven experience of working with partners and stakeholders and managing species recovery projects, along with possessing some knowledge of Twite, their ecology and the local area (Pennines). 

Main responsibilities for this role: 

• To work to a budget to deliver a programme of work restoring the species to a stable breeding population in line with targets specified in the action plan 
• To report up to date monitoring data to the project steering group and make decisions on project next steps 
• To plan 2024 breeding season work and manage a small team of conservation volunteers in delivery of key objectives outlined in the action plan
• To work with partners, stakeholders, landowners and the local community to enthuse them and advocate for the species 

Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 

• Practical experience in delivering species recovery projects 
• Strong advocacy and communication skills with the ability to adapt your style of delivery depending on the audience 
• Strong relationship and partnership building skills to work as part of a partnership and project team 
• Accomplished spoken and written communication skills using traditional or digital tools 
• Able to use excellent problem-solving skills and find creative solutions for issues
• Able to work under pressure, adapt to changing circumstances and meet deadlines
• Proven time management and organisational skills
• Experience of potential funders and their requirements
• A sound understanding of the ecology and behaviour of Twite
• Possess a valid UK driving licence or ability to access remote locations

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Ability to line manage and motivate staff and volunteers for good outcomes. 
• Experience of reporting to steering groups. 
• Experience of producing written materials, newsletters and similar communication 

This is a 6 month Fixed-Term Part-Time role for 22.5 hours per week. 

The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from 04/09/23. For further information please contact katrina.aspin@rspb.org.uk.

As part of this application process you will be asked to 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. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete 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.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.