Coast to Coast Path National Trail Partnership Manager

Would you like to work in one of the most beautiful landscapes in Britain? Do you want to lead the development and long-term success of one of England’s newest National Trails? If so, we have a unique opportunity to take a lead role in shaping the future of the Coast to Coast Path – one of the nation’s most iconic long-distance routes.

About Us

We are the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, an organisation that protects, enhances and promotes the immense beauty, wildlife and character of the Yorkshire Dales. Set against expansive heather moorland tops, each valley has its own distinct charm, from crags and waterfalls to an underground labyrinth of caves.

We’re looking for someone to play a key role in supporting the long-term success of the Coast to Coast Path National Trail, helping to deliver high standards and lasting benefits for people, communities and the environment.

This permanent role is part time (22 hours per week) and home based, with regular travel across the National Park and along the Trail.

The Benefits

• Salary of £37,280 to £41,771 pro rata, per annum
• Generous leave: starting at 26 days plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Flexible working: Flexi-time scheme
• Excellent pension: Local Government Defined Benefit Pension Scheme
• Wellbeing support: Subsidised healthcare scheme, cycle to work scheme and staff discounts
• Free parking pass

The Role

This is a rare opportunity to take strategic and operational responsibility for a nationally significant long-distance route. You will lead delivery of the Coast to Coast Path National Trail Delivery Framework, working with partners to meet national quality standards.

Your role will combine strategy, partnership working and practical delivery. You will:

• Lead and support the National Trail Partnership and associated groups
• Develop and oversee delivery plans, monitoring performance against national standards
• Manage the Partnership budget and secure external funding to support projects
• Co-ordinate maintenance programmes and monitor the condition and use of the Trail
• Act as an advocate for the Trail, helping to raise its profile and promote responsible access
• Support governance arrangements, including preparing reports and contributing to partnership and steering groups

You’ll work closely with local authorities, landowners, communities and national organisations to balance access, conservation and visitor experience.

This is an opportunity to shape the Trail at a formative stage, influencing how it is managed, experienced and valued for years to come.

About You

You’ll bring a strong background in countryside access, rights of way or a related field, along with experience of working in complex partnership environments.

You will be confident operating at both a strategic and practical level, with the ability to turn plans into delivery on the ground.

We’re particularly looking for:

• Experience of managing countryside access or rights of way projects
• Strong partnership and stakeholder management skills, including negotiation
• Experience of developing and delivering plans or strategies
• Sound financial management, including securing and managing external funding
• An understanding of legislation and current issues relating to access, conservation and sustainable tourism

You’ll be an effective communicator, confident representing the Trail with partners, stakeholders and the public.

Access to a car or access to a means of mobility support to meet travel demands of the post is essential (if driving must have a current valid driving licence and appropriate business insurance), as you will be required to travel within the Park in order to undertake this post.

The role involves regular travel, including site visits across varied and sometimes challenging terrain. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Join Our Team!
We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, we guarantee you an interview.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds to apply and join us.

For an informal chat about the role, contact Alan Hulme, Head of Park Management on 01756 751647 or [email protected]

Closing date: 11pm on Sunday 14 June 2026
Anticipated interview date: During week commencing Monday 29 June 2026