Post date: 22-Sep-2016 10:30:36
Reference number: 1505471
Salary: £32,402 - £35,422
Grade: Higher Executive Officer, PB4
Contract type: Fixed Term
Length of employment: 3 years
Location
This post is a national role covering the whole of England and therefore a central England location is preferable, however any reasonable proposal will be considered. With offices throughout the country, this matter will be discussed and agreed with the successful candidate, prior to a formal offer being made. As this is a national role some travel and overnight stays will be expected (on average 1-2 days per week, with occasional longer periods).
About the job
Job description
This vacancy is open at Stage 4 - External Recruitment.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON UNIT
The social objective for the public forest estate in England is to provide recreational and other social benefits to people visiting the estate. The active forests (AF) programme will contribute to this objective by making it an easy choice for visitors to adopt and maintain a sporting habit for life, providing opportunities for improved health, well-being and social interaction.
The provision of the best possible customer experience at all stages will be the fundamental principle that will help to ensure that the programme is financially sustainable, generating revenue through activity charges, site admission, and new and repeat visitors to our sites.
This new post has been created as a result of the successful pilot project. The new mainstream programme will be joint funded by Sport England and Forest Enterprise England (FEE) for 3 years but aims to reach financial viability within 5 years.
In year one of the new programme 6 pilot sites will be supplemented with 4 new sites and this will be followed up to a further 10 sites subsequent years. Whilst the programme is being established the successful elements from the pilot project will be introduced at the new sites. Following years will see new services and products explored, developed and introduced. Other aspects of the pilot project, such as the promotion and monitoring & evaluation programmes will be built upon and developed further.
This post is a 3 year Fixed Term Appointment which, provided there is sufficient evidence that the programme is meeting its key objectives, is expected to become permanent at the end of this 3 year term.
PURPOSE OF THE JOB
To manage, lead and coordinate delivery of the Active Forests programme across the Public Forest Estate in England.
KEY WORK AREAS
1. Support production of annual delivery strategy, leading on agreed elements.
2. Build strong relationships at both a local and National level with FEE staff, partners and private sector activity providers.
3. Support local FC staff in developing & managing local relationships.
4. Co-ordinate programme activity and support site delivery.
5. Manage AF finances, ensuring agreed targets are met.
6. In line with delivery strategy lead and coordinate development / delivery of:
a. National products and services
b. Communication plan
c. Monitoring and evaluation programme
7. Provide a point of expertise for sports related matters for FEE units.
8. In line with AF delivery strategy compile reports monitoring performance and results, taking corrective action as required.
9. Provide quarterly project updates to the programme board identifying achievements, monitoring budgets and identifying any risks to business plan targets.
10. Support co-ordination and facilitation of programme board.
Person specification
EXPERIENCE
Essential
Background and experience of delivering sports activities and events within an outdoor environment attracting large numbers of participants
Proven track record in overseeing the successful delivery of complex, multi site projects
Experience of developing and working within a successful visitor centric culture
Desirable
Knowledge and experience of working with Sport England, National Governing Bodies and the Forestry Commission
PROFESSIONAL/TECHNICAL EXPERTISE
Essential
Wide experience of using Microsoft windows based IT systems to manage projects, undertake effective communications and analyse data
Desirable
A degree or relevant post-graduate qualification in countryside management, outdoor leisure or forestry
SEEING THE BIG PICTURE
Be alert to emerging issues and trends which might impact or benefit you and your team’s work
MAKING EFFECTIVE DECISIONS
Make decisions when they are needed, even if they prove difficult or unpopular
Recognise patterns and trends in a wide range of evidence/data and draw key conclusions
LEADING AND COMMUNICATING
Communicate using appropriate styles, methods and timing, including digital channels, to maximise understanding and impact
Convey enthusiasm and energy about your work and encourage others to do the same
COLLABORATING AND PARTNERING
Establish relationships with a range of stakeholders to support delivery of business outcomes
Deal with conflict in a prompt, calm and constructive manner
DELIVERING AT PACE
Show a positive approach in keeping your and your team’s efforts focused on the goals that really matter
Take responsibility for delivering expected outcomes on time and to standard, giving credit to teams and individuals as appropriate
Licences
The duties of this post require the applicant to have a full current driving licence that enables them to drive in the UK. However, the Forestry Commission is willing to consider any proposals put forward by applicants that would allow them to do the job by any other means.
Competencies
You will be asked to supply evidence of meeting these competencies when you apply.
Experience and Professional/Technical Expertise - as detailed in Person specification
Seeing the big picture
Making effective decisions
Leading and communicating
Collaborating and partnering
Delivering at pace
Mr Paddy Harrop
paddy.harrop@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
0300 067 4136