Senior Advisor

Description:

The Environment Agency is seeking a strategic and experienced Senior Advisor to join the national Land & Contamination Management team. The role focuses on addressing legacy land contamination and water pollution from abandoned mines, supporting government growth ambitions, and delivering the Environmental Improvement Plan.

The successful candidate will act as Programme Executive for the Contaminated Land and Water and Abandoned Metal Mines Programmes, managing high-profile projects, resolving contentious issues, and advising stakeholders on remediation and environmental protection strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Contaminated Land and Water and Abandoned Metal Mines Programmes

• Support delivery on complex and contentious legacy contamination issues

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Defra, government departments, stakeholders, and partners

• Lead national engagement with the Mining Remediation Authority for water pollution mitigation

• Share technical expertise on land remediation, contaminated soil and groundwater treatment, Part 2A Special Sites, and publication of State of Contaminated Land Reports

• Lead and manage a small team of technical staff

• Ensure regulatory compliance, risk management, and delivery to time, cost, and quality standards

Experience / Skills Required:

• Proven experience in land contamination and/or pollution from abandoned mines

• Knowledge of legislation and statutory/best practice guidance (Part 2A EPA 1990 knowledge desirable)

• Project and programme management experience, including investigation/remediation of contaminated land or polluted water

• Experience leading and managing high-performing teams

• Ability to inform and influence government departments and stakeholders on complex topics

• Degree or higher qualification in a relevant discipline (essential); chartership (desirable)

Competencies for Interview Selection:

1. Manages Self – Awareness of strengths/weaknesses and personal responsibility for role

2. Programme and Project Management – Manage programmes/projects effectively to meet deadlines, cost, and quality

3. Leads People – Inspire and motivate teams to achieve goals under challenging circumstances

4. Influences and Persuades Others – Successfully persuade stakeholders on contentious projects or decisions

Additional Information / Benefits:

• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements with EA office base; travel and overnight stays may be required

• Inclusive incident management objective with appropriate training provided

• Guaranteed interview policy for candidates with disabilities

• Option to be held on a reserve list for 6 months for future roles