Jobs for the Environment sector

Director of Policy

£82,450 pa + Excellent benefits

Woking, Surrey GU21 4LL / Hybrid Working (minimum 40% in person collaboration per month)

About the role

We’re looking for a highly strategic Director of Policy with deep experience of influencing policy and political decision-making to lead WWF-UK’s policy development and influence at a critical moment for climate and nature.

This is a senior leadership role at the heart of WWF-UK’s strategy and impact. Working across advocacy, conservation, science, in the UK and internationally, you will shape and drive a small number of high-impact policy priorities capable of unlocking meaningful change across systems including food, finance, trade and land use.

You will lead a high-performing Policy team, strengthening WWF-UK’s ability to respond quickly and credibly to political opportunities with deliverable solutions. This is a role for someone who combines deep policy expertise with sharp political judgement, trusted relationship-building and the ability to influence both behind the scenes and at the highest levels externally.

Working with the advocacy Directorate, you will build and maintain trusted senior relationships across Whitehall, including with departments such as the Cabinet Office, Treasury and FCDO, helping shape thinking early and informally while also influencing policy development and implementation with colleagues and partners internationally.

Alongside leading and developing a collaborative and confident team, you will contribute as a senior organisational leader, helping shape direction, organisational outcomes and strategic decision-making across WWF-UK.

This is an opportunity to lead policy work that helps tackle some of the world’s most urgent challenges, while building the partnerships, coalitions and political influence needed to turn ideas into action and impact.

Skills and experience

You’ll bring the skills and experience needed to succeed in this role, including:

Essential

· Significant senior-level experience of developing and influencing policy through to implementation, including shaping practical and politically deliverable solutions

· Strong understanding of UK political and policy-making environments, including experience of influencing senior stakeholders, policy makers and decision-makers through trusted relationships

· Experience of operating effectively in fast-moving and politically sensitive environments, responding quickly and credibly to emerging opportunities and challenges

· Track record of delivering high-impact policy outcomes across complex issues and multiple stakeholders

· Experience of building and maintaining senior relationships across government, business, civil society, finance or international institutions

· Strong strategic judgement with the ability to identify priorities, simplify complexity and focus organisations around a small number of actionable policy asks

· Experience of leading, motivating and developing high-performing teams, including matrix and cross-organisational leadership

· Experience of leading organisational or cross-functional priorities through collaboration, influence and strong stakeholder engagement

· Experience of managing significant programmes, budgets and organisational priorities effectively

· Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and persuasively to different audiences

· Strong analytical skills and confidence using evidence, insight and data to shape decisions and influence policy

· Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure, balancing strategic thinking with delivery and pace

· Commitment to inclusive leadership and experience of building equitable, diverse and inclusive approaches to policy development and decision-making

· Strong self-awareness, resilience and openness to challenge, feedback and learning

Desirable

· Experience of influencing international policy, coalitions or global advocacy agendas

· Experience of working across devolved policy environments including Scotland, Wales and/or Northern Ireland

· Understanding of climate, nature, food, finance, trade or land use policy

· Experience of developing policy-led partnerships, funding proposals or income generation opportunities with funders, businesses or philanthropic organisations

· Experience of involving affected communities or external partners in policy development and design

· Experience of working across advocacy, science, conservation or campaigning environments

· Experience of building voluntary action or partnership-based approaches alongside formal policy and regulation

· Fluency or working proficiency in languages other than English would be advantageous

What we offer

We believe in rewarding our team with more than just a salary. Here’s what you can expect:

• Annual leave starting at 26 days a year pro-rated, rising one day each year to 31 days plus bank holidays

• Flexible working options, to support your work life balance

• 5% employer contribution to pension, rising to 10% with employee contribution

• Learning and development opportunities to help you grow

• Regular wellbeing initiatives to support your health and happiness.

This is a UK based contract, and you are required to have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer sponsorship and any offer of employment will be subject to evidence of your Right to Work in the UK.

This role is hybrid with a minimum 40% of your contracted hours spent at our beautiful UK head office, the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey, where you’ll hot desk among trees and gardens.

About WWF-UK

We're a global conservation charity with millions of supporters and hundreds of projects around the world.

At WWF-UK, we’re bringing our world back to life. Protecting what’s left isn’t enough. We’re racing to restore nature and prevent catastrophic climate change. And it’s a race we can win with everyone’s help.

We’re courageous, passionate, and driven by science. For more than 60 years we’ve been at the forefront of global efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world. We work with integrity, collaboration and deep respect for those we partner with.

How to apply

Click the link to apply via our website. You’ll be asked to complete an application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement that tells us why you’ll be a great addition to WWF-UK.

Application closing date

14/06/2026

Our Diversity Promise to You

At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: the planet needs everyone. That means you - in all your uniqueness, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or how you choose to express yourself.

We don’t do stereotypes. We work together with purpose, driven by passion and enhanced by respect, courage, and integrity. We pull together from all walks of life to fight for a better future, and we want you to feel supported every step of the way.

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities.

So, if there’s anything we can do to make your application or interview experience more comfortable or accessible, just give our Talent Acquisition Team a shout via our website.

Safeguarding Commitment

Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, we are equally dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person we work with or encounter.

Our commitment extends to children, adults at risk, and individuals experiencing any form of vulnerability, whether temporary or permanent.

We proudly stand behind CAPSEAH (Common Approach to Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment) and put this commitment into action through clear policies, thorough training, and recruitment checks tailored to each role, which may include external vetting.

If you ever have a concern, however big or small, know that there are confidential channels ready to support you at WWF-UK. We promise to respond promptly and with care, because protecting every individual is at the heart of everything we do.

Forest Farm Peace Garden is a small East London charity offering ecotherapy and community gardening to support people’s mental health and wellbeing.

We are looking for a strategic, hands‑on Director (21 hours per week) to lead our next chapter, working closely with a committed staff team, trustees and volunteers.

As Director you will hold overall responsibility for the charity’s vision, strategy and day‑to‑day operations, ensuring our programmes run safely, sustainably and in line with our values. You will lead on fundraising and finance, including developing and delivering a fundraising strategy, managing budgets and reporting to funders and the Board of Trustees.

You will line‑manage our Ecotherapy Worker, Gardener, and three sessional staff, nurture a positive, inclusive culture, and make sure staff and volunteers are supported to do their best work. Building relationships with local mental health services, community organisations and partners will be central to the role, helping us reach people who can benefit most from time in the garden.

This role would suit someone who enjoys combining strategic thinking with practical delivery in a small organisation, and who is confident working independently while collaborating closely with others. If you care about mental health, social justice and nature connection, and want to help a much‑loved local project thrive, we would love to hear from you.

Term: Fixed term contract ending 30th May 2028
Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary: £49,747
 
We also offer:

• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and a discretionary Christmas closure
• Benefits platform with discounts on retail, dining and days out 
• Salary sacrifice schemes for gym, bicycles and nursery/childcare
• Access to a free Employee Assistance Scheme to support you inside and outside of work
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay and leave schemes

 
Location: Head Office (Victoria) and occasional site travel typically 1-2 days per week, remaining from home
 
Flexible working: Hybrid working is available in this position. Flexible working requests are available from day one including the opportunity to work compressed hours. We would also consider applications from part time applicants working 4 days per week. 
 
Role & Responsibilities 
Looking for a role where you can help shape the future of nature recovery in London?
 
Ready to help deliver ambitious projects that restore habitats, support communities and inspire the next generation of nature recovery leaders? 
 
We’re looking for a Head of Strategic Projects to join London Wildlife Trust’s Nature Recovery team. Reporting to the Director of Nature Recovery, you’ll lead a team delivering a diverse portfolio of strategic projects spanning woodland and waterways restoration, ecological monitoring and youth skills development. You’ll oversee established projects, support the development of new nature recovery initiatives, and help strengthen and monitor the impact of our work.
 
You will:

• Lead and support a multidisciplinary team delivering practical, innovative and ambitious nature recovery work across London
• Oversee delivery and development of the Keeping it Wild traineeship, helping young people build skills and pathways into nature recovery careers 
• Shape new projects and partnerships that support the Trust’s long-term ambitions for nature
• Support ecological monitoring and evidence-led approaches that strengthen the impact of our work 
• Build collaborative relationships with communities, funders and partners to deliver projects with lasting impact for wildlife and people 

 
Our ideal Head of Strategic Projects
We’re looking for someone with strong programme leadership and partnership skills, significant experience of managing complex projects and teams, and a passion for helping people and nature thrive together.
 
(Please see job description for full person specification)
 
Closing Date: 10th June 2026 at 9.30am
Interviews: Are scheduled to take place on 24th and 25th June and reasonable adjustments will be offered to all candidates including the choice to meet online or in-person.
 
Does this sound like you? We’d love to hear from you! 
 
Our vision is a London alive with wildlife, with nature in everyone's neighbourhood. To achieve our goal of inspiring everyone to help restore London’s wildlife, we recognise that our team must better reflect and represent all of London’s diverse communities. Find out more about London Wildlife Trust’s commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion on our website.
 
We are also committed to ensuring that the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk is at the heart of our engagement with people. Read about our commitment to safeguarding on our website.
 
REF-228 718

The Woodland Trust is looking for two Funded Project Managers to lead the successful delivery and completion of our funded projects.

The Role:
•    Provide leadership to Project Officers, ensuring all funded projects are delivered and completed to a high standard.
•    Manage the Funded Projects team to maintain consistent, robust project standards across all activity.
•    Support the development of strong funding bids, realistic budgets and informed organisational decision-making.
•    Maximise grant opportunities, identify risks early and safeguard the Trust’s financial and reputational interests.
•    Maintain excellent relationships and effective negotiations with funders, regulators and contributors.
•    Champion continuous improvement in reporting processes across the Trust and for external funders.
•    Monitor resources, highlight risks and ensure compliance with statutory obligations, VAT, procurement rules and best-practice project management.
•    Produce high-quality management information, support forecasting and contribute to fund accounting and full cost recovery modelling.
•    This is a hybrid position with a mix of home working, and from our head office in Grantham, Lincolnshire. Head office attendance would be required no more than once a month on average. Occasional travel to other offices and remote locations may also be required.
•    These roles are to be offered on a 12-month fixed term contract.

The Candidate:
•    Brings proven experience in supporting, mentoring and developing individuals and teams.
•    Skilled at building strong, productive relationships across internal teams and external partners.
•    Able to navigate complex financial challenges, including funder restrictions and avoidance of double funding.
•    Capable of interpreting, challenging and explaining financial principles to non-experts with clarity and influence.
•    Understands the financial implications of projects and how they flow through organisational accounts.
•    Makes sound decisions based on budgets, policies, funder guidelines and project management frameworks.
•    Brings knowledge of conservation and/or relevant finance or project management qualifications (desirable).
•    The successful candidate will be required to undertake a Basic Background Check, as part of our pre-employment screening.

Benefits and Wellbeing:
Joining our team means you’ll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer:
•    Enhanced Employer Pension
•    Life Assurance
•    Flexible & Hybrid Working Options
•    Generous Annual Leave - 25 Days Plus Bank Holidays (pro rata’d for part-time)
•    Buy and Sell Holiday Scheme
•    Enhanced Parental Pay
•    Employee Assistance Programme

About Us:
The Woodland Trust is the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity.  We want to see a world where trees and woods thrive for people and nature. The Trust engages and inspires people to make their difference tackling the nature and climate crisis helping protect, restore and create our vital woods and trees.

Our Commitment to Diversity and 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:
For fairness we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from the hiring managers, and we do not ask for your CV at application. 
Make sure that you answer the Application Questions to show your relevant skills and passion for the role. Even if you don't meet every requirement of the role, we would encourage you to apply. 

Acceptable Use - 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. 

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. If we do close the advert early, and you have an application in process, we will email you prior to closing to give you time to complete.

1st stage interviews are to be held via MS Teams on June 23rd & 24th, with 2nd stages on July 8th.

NEF is looking for an Economist to join its macroeconomics and monetary policy work. This is an exciting opportunity for a curious, rigorous and politically engaged economist who is motivated to develop bold, practical and well-evidenced policy ideas that can improve living standards, support public investment, and make the monetary system work better for people and planet.

The successful candidate will bring strong quantitative and economic research skills to work across a range of areas, including interest rates, inflation, Bank of England policy, monetary-fiscal coordination, credit conditions, financial stability, public investment, distributional impacts, and the design of alternative monetary tools.

We are recruiting at a time when AI is reshaping how research is produced, tested and communicated. We are looking for economists who can use these tools intelligently, while bringing the judgement, scepticism, creativity and political insight that technology cannot replace.

Role: Economist – Monetary Policy
Hours of work: Full Time (32 hours per week under NEF’s Shorter Working Week)
Salary: £44,769 - £49,764
Location: London (in-office minimum two days per week)
Contract type: Permanent

How to apply

Deadline for applications: midnight, 14th June 2026
Interviews:  First stage interviews 1st July with second stage in person interviews on the 6th July

Start date: ASAP

Please send your CV and your answer to the following questions in Word format.

1. Set out how your experience meets the essential criteria in the job description (300 words max)

2. Tell us about one piece of economic, energy, climate or other public policy research that has influenced your thinking. What did you take from it, and how might it shape NEF’s work? (200 words max)

3. Describe a dataset you have worked with (academic, work-based, or self-initiated). What question did you investigate, and how did you approach the analysis? (200 words max)

4. Share an example of when you disagreed with a policy position or research conclusion. Describe your disagreement and expand on your own position (200 words max)

Please also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form.

You must be eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to sponsor visas.

Inclusivity at NEF:

NEF wants to be an inclusive workplace with a diverse body of staff. We don’t want to conform to the traditional think-tank model where people from certain backgrounds are hugely under-represented. We know we have some way to go in this and are therefore genuinely keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; women; neurodivergent people; disabled people; people who identify as LGBT+; people with experience of mental health problems; and people who identify as working class or have done so in the past.

Accessibility and Equal Opportunity:

We value all candidates and are committed to equal opportunity. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application process, or would like information in an alternative format, please let us know.

We actively promote positive action to advance fairness and tackle underrepresentation within our workforce.

NEF is looking for a Senior Economist to lead ambitious, policy-relevant work on macroeconomics, public finance and the future of the UK economy. This is an exciting opportunity for a rigorous, creative and politically engaged economist who is motivated to develop bold, practical and well-evidenced policy ideas that can shift public debate and influence decision-makers.

The successful candidate will lead work across a wide range of areas, including fiscal policy, monetary policy, public investment, inflation, taxation, debt, living standards, industrial strategy, economic security, and the macroeconomic conditions needed for a fast and fair transition.

We are particularly interested in self-starters: people who can identify important economic questions, immerse themselves quickly in the evidence, and use data tools and AI intelligently to develop substantial projects from early idea through to impactful, public-facing outputs with limited supervision.

Role: Senior Economist – Macroeconomics
Hours of work: Full Time (32 hours per week under NEF’s Shorter Working Week)
Salary: £54,470 - £60,480
Location: London (in-office minimum two days per week)
Contract type: Permanent

How to apply

Deadline for applications: midnight, 12th June 2026
Interviews:  First stage interviews 24th June with second stage in person interviews on the 30th June

Start date: ASAP

Please send your CV and your answer to the following questions in Word format.

1. Set out how your experience meets the essential criteria in the job description (300 words max)

2. Identify one economic policy idea that NEF should develop over the next year. What problem would it address, what evidence would you need, and who would need to be persuaded? (200 words max)

3. Tell us about a substantial project or workstream you led, ideally from conception to delivery. How did you shape the question, manage any uncertainty and ensure the work had impact? (200 words max

4. Explain a complex economic issue you have worked on or wish to work on and do so as if you are briefing a busy MP. (200 words max)

Please also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form.

You must be eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to sponsor visas.

Inclusivity at NEF:

NEF wants to be an inclusive workplace with a diverse body of staff. We don’t want to conform to the traditional think-tank model where people from certain backgrounds are hugely under-represented. We know we have some way to go in this and are therefore genuinely keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; women; neurodivergent people; disabled people; people who identify as LGBT+; people with experience of mental health problems; and people who identify as working class or have done so in the past.

Accessibility and Equal Opportunity:

We value all candidates and are committed to equal opportunity. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application process, or would like information in an alternative format, please let us know.

We actively promote positive action to advance fairness and tackle underrepresentation within our workforce.