About us and what we do
At the heart of our work is our Species Recovery Centre, a unique facility where we carry out our vital science and conservation work. This centre is home to our pioneering efforts in freshwater pearl mussel conservation, a species on the brink of extinction. Through our exemplary captive breeding, research and conservation translocation programmes, we are giving these remarkable mussels a second chance, restoring populations on the brink of extinction and working with partners to safeguard the biodiversity of our rivers.
About the role and you
The role will primarily involve managing the pearl mussel team and the range of projects related to freshwater pearl mussel conservation breeding and translocation at the FBA Species Recovery Centre (4 days/week). You will also have the opportunity (1 day/week) to support the expansion of our species recovery ambitions within the organisation, shaping projects and site infrastructure around your own interests where they align with the ambitions of the FBA and freshwater species recovery. The Species Recovery Manager will make up part of the Senior Leadership Team of the FBA and be specifically tasked with:
- Overall responsibility for managing our well-established freshwater pearl mussel conservation breeding and translocation activities. Line management of team members and volunteers.
- Continuing the excellent relationships with partners/funders and fostering new collaborations. Timely reporting on project progress and budgetary responsibility.
- Bid-writing activities to ensure the project remains on a sustainable funding footing.
- Overall responsibility for day-to-day Health & Safety and welfare of those on our Species Recovery Centre.
- Manage environmental and monitoring data acquisition and analysis to support the needs of the project.
- Support the Head of Science in prioritising and securing additional nature/species recovery projects and with large-scale development of our facilities.
We’re looking for a dynamic and passionate leader to take on this truly rewarding role. You’ll manage and inspire a talented team, fostering a positive, collaborative environment. You will possess exceptional interpersonal communication skills, both verbal and written, enabling you to clearly articulate ideas, strategies, and instructions to all stakeholders. Your foresight ensures sustainable success and adaptability.
Above all, we’re looking for a true team player—someone who values collaboration, supports colleagues, and is committed to achieving shared goals. If you’re ready to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact on species recovery, we’d love to hear from you!