Ecology Team Manager – Nelson & Wellington

About the role

SLR Consulting is an international environmental consultancy driven by the aim of making sustainability happen. The organisation works with clients on complex sustainability challenges through expert advice and tailored support. It has a strong presence across Aotearoa, with close to 200 employees locally and more than 800 additional staff across Asia Pacific, serving business, regulatory and government clients. The company values a collaborative culture that brings together different perspectives to achieve strong outcomes.

This is a rare leadership opportunity within the Ecology & Biodiversity team in Aotearoa. Based in Nelson, the position will provide leadership across both the Nelson and Wellington offices. The role combines people leadership, coaching and development, technical excellence, and business growth responsibilities, with a strong focus on helping the team and the wider practice succeed.

What you will do

• Lead a team of 13 direct reports across the Nelson and Wellington Ecology & Biodiversity group.
• Offer technical guidance, deliver training, and coach team members to strengthen capability.
• Oversee project delivery so work is completed on schedule and within budget.
• Identify and build relationships with new and emerging clients to support growth in Ecology & Marine services.
• Help expand the Ecology & Marine practice in line with SLR’s purpose and values.
• Motivate and support colleagues to achieve financial and strategic objectives.
• Review and approve expense claims and timesheets, while encouraging strong timekeeping habits across the team.
• Protect commercial interests by reviewing project work and upholding high quality standards.

Experience and skills needed

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Ecology, Marine Science, or a closely related discipline, along with 12–15+ years of consulting experience in Ecology or Marine Science. Strong technical expertise, especially in marine ecology, is highly desirable.

You should also bring proven experience in winning, leading, and managing projects, plus a network or client base that can help generate new business. Experience with impact assessments and environmental risk assessments is required, as is knowledge of New Zealand environmental legislation, policies, standards, and guidelines. A strong commitment to health and safety, particularly for fieldwork, is important, along with the ability to build trusted long-term relationships, consistently meet targets, and support professional development.

Other requirements

Applicants must have New Zealand citizenship or the right to work in New Zealand. A current driver’s licence and a clean driving history are also required.

Benefits

SLR offers a collaborative culture and flexible ways of working, including office-based, home-based, or hybrid arrangements depending on individual needs. The benefits package is designed to support different working styles and preferences.

Additional information

Hiring decisions are based on experience, skills, and passion. The interview process aims to include gender-diverse panels wherever possible. Candidates are asked to share their pronouns and any reasonable adjustments needed for interviews.

Unsolicited CVs from recruitment consultants will not be considered unless they are part of the preferred supplier agreement managed by the Talent Acquisition team.