Area Manager (West)

The Role

SERT is re-organising our structure geographically into three Catchment Clusters in the South East (defined as South London, East and West). Having conducted a successful pilot in the East, we are now expanding this approach to the new South London and West Catchment Clusters.

The West Catchment Cluster (WCC) requires an individual with proven leadership experience who can lead this newly formed team and strategically maximise SERT’s impact in the predominantly Surrey-based catchments of the Loddon, Wey and Mole.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Help to establish and enhance a ‘one-team’ ethos across the CC, whilst also ensuring it is embedded within the wider organisation
• Lead WCC’s prioritisation on the key activities (both restoration and engagement) that we wish to undertake in our Surrey Catchments.
• Direct line management of two roles (this may increase in the future):
  • i) Working with the Natural Flood Management Lead to grow the opportunities of using nature to hold back water in the landscape
  • ii) Managing the Catchment Manager to ensure our Catchment Partnerships are action-based.
• Identify and directly support new project funding opportunities from a range of sources to grow our impact.
• Ensure WCC is at the right tables where decisions affecting its rivers are being made and has an important and respected voice in those decisions.

What We Are Looking For

This role is an exciting challenge and will require you to build on the foundations of what has already been achieved within these catchments. You will need to maximise impact by working with our Specialist Teams to priorities SERT’s activities and strategically guide river restoration projects. You will also work closely with our Working With Communities team (WWC) to improve engagement with the communities who live along these rivers. It is desirable if you have a good overview of river catchments, data monitoring and the role that nature-based solutions (such as Natural Flood Management) play in providing multiple benefits.

About You

Besides having a passion for rivers, we require an individual who can confidently develop and grow a new team, whilst seeking new opportunities for impact. You will be adept at business development and will be comfortable supporting strategic relationships with catchment partners, local government, water companies, local businesses and environmental NGOs. You will need a good overview of Health and Safety best practise, empowering our Restoring River Catchments (RRC) team to undertake effective project delivery and risk management in the field.

Application process

• Closing date for applications: Tuesday 14th April 2026 at 11:59pm.
• Interviews: Monday 20th April – Friday 1st May 2026