Role description

The Riverfly Partnership is a dynamic network of organisations, representing anglers, conservationists, entomologists, scientists, water course managers and relevant authorities, working together to protect the water quality of our rivers, further the understanding of riverfly populations, and actively conserve freshwater habitats.

The RP is one of Europe’s longest running, large-scale citizen science projects, acting as an early-warning system to detect chronic and acute pollution incidents through monitoring of macroinvertebrate populations. We are seeking an outstanding leader who will develop sustainable funding streams for the project, liaising with a wide variety of stakeholders to develop and grow new collaborative opportunities. You will work with project staff and wider Partnership members to critically assess the current project support structure to ensure it is fit for purpose. You will have overall responsibility for running the project, including budgeting, and will involve line management of Riverfly Programme Coordinators (currently x2 posts) to deliver high-quality outcomes across all Riverfly methods and activities.

Essential Qualities/Person specification

You will possess exceptional people skills, will build strong relationships and foster a positive, collaborative environment. You will demonstrate natural leadership and the ability to inspire and motivate, showing confidence in your decisions while remaining approachable and open to feedback. A strong knowledge of the sector is essential, ensuring informed judgment and strategic insight. Reliability and integrity are key, alongside excellent communication skills that enable clear, persuasive interaction at all levels.

You can craft long-term strategic plans whilst also tackling immediate challenges through critical analysis and creative problem-solving. Your foresight ensures sustainable success and adaptability. A project management certification would be desirable, although not essential. You will have experience of converting your strategic planning and financial management activities into successful fundraising outcomes and compelling communications. Formal training in fundraising or a demonstrable track-record of securing project funds is highly desirable.

With the support of the wider SLT and partnership, you can make informed, decisive judgments rooted in sound leadership principles, balancing priorities, allocating resources wisely, and resolving conflicts with fairness and confidence. You proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks to safeguard project continuity and success. Your vigilance and strategic interventions prevent disruptions and drive positive outcomes. Above all, the candidate will be a true team player—open to collaboration, supportive of colleagues, and dedicated to achieving shared goals.