Welcome to our vacancy page. Please see below our current vacancies. If you have any questions about working with Bristol Avon Rivers Trust, please contact info@bristolavonriverstrust.org
Trustee (Legal Expertise)
About BART
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust (BART) is an environmental charity dedicated to restoring, reconnecting and protecting the rivers of the Bristol Avon catchment.
Our strategic plan, Vision of a Healthy River, is structured around three core priorities:
- Climate resilience
- Biodiversity recovery
- Community engagement
As BART grows in scale and influence – delivering complex restoration programmes, developing citizen science networks, and operating through our trading subsidiary (BART River Services Ltd) – robust governance and proportionate risk management are increasingly critical.
Purpose of the Role
The Trustee (Legal Expertise) will strengthen the Board’s oversight of legal risk, governance compliance, and strategic decision-making as BART expands its delivery and partnerships.
This is a governance role. The Trustee will not act as BART’s retained solicitor but will:
- Support the Board in identifying and managing legal risk
- Provide strategic input on complex agreements and structures
- Help ensure compliance with charity and company law obligations
- Support sound, proportionate governance as the organisation grows
Key Responsibilities
As a Trustee, you will:
- Fulfil the legal duties of a charity trustee under Charity Commission and company law
- Contribute to strategic direction and long-term sustainability
- Ensure BART operates in line with its charitable objectives
- Support oversight of financial health and risk management
- Act in the best interests of the Trust and its beneficiaries
In addition, the Trustee with legal expertise will:
- Provide strategic guidance on:
- Partnership agreements and MOUs
- Commercial contracts and procurement
- Employment and HR compliance
- Land access and restoration agreements
- Trading subsidiary governance
- Data protection and regulatory compliance
- Help the Board determine when external legal advice is required
- Contribute to the Finance & Risk Committee (or equivalent sub-committee)
Person Specification
Essential
- Qualified solicitor or barrister (current or former practising certificate)
- Strong understanding of governance and regulatory frameworks
- Ability to interpret and explain legal risk in clear, practical terms
- Strategic mindset with the ability to operate at Board level
- Commitment to environmental restoration and public benefit
Desirable
Experience in one or more of the following:
- Charity law
- Environmental or planning law
- Commercial and contract law
- Employment law
- Public sector contracting
- Land agreements or conservation covenants
- Governance of trading subsidiaries
Time Commitment
- Approximately 4–6 Board meetings per year
- Participation in relevant sub-committees
- Occasional ad hoc strategic input between meetings
The role is voluntary and unpaid, though reasonable expenses may be reimbursed.
Strategic Importance of the Role
Over the next 3–5 years, BART anticipates:
- Increased delivery of capital river restoration projects
- Greater engagement in development and planning contexts
- Expanded citizen science and community programmes
- Growth in commercial activity via BART River Services Ltd
- More formalised multi-agency partnerships
Legal expertise at Board level will ensure that growth is matched with strong governance, proportionate risk management, and organisational resilience.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
BART is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board. We actively welcome applications from individuals who bring varied backgrounds, lived experience, and perspectives.
If you are interested in applying for this role, please see more information below:
Please send applications to simon@bristolavonriverstrust.org
Head of Operations
About Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust is an independent environmental charity dedicated to restoring and protecting the rivers of the Bristol Avon catchment for people and wildlife.
We work across urban and rural landscapes to deliver practical river restoration, natural flood management, climate resilience, biodiversity recovery and community engagement projects at a catchment scale. Our work ranges from removing barriers to fish migration and restoring river habitat, through to supporting regenerative farming, creating wetlands and woodlands, and engaging communities in citizen science and environmental action.
As the Trust continues to grow in scale, ambition and complexity, we are seeking an experienced and highly organised Head of Operations to help strengthen our organisational systems, support our team and enable the effective delivery of our strategic vision.
The Role
Job Title
Head of Operations
Location
Hybrid working – with regular attendance across BART offices, project sites and meetings within the Bristol Avon catchment.
Reports to
Chief Executive Officer
Salary:
£50,000 per annum
Contract Type
Permanent
Hours
Full-time (37.5 hours per week)
Flexible working arrangements considered.
Purpose of the Role
The Head of Operations will play a central leadership role within Bristol Avon Rivers Trust, ensuring the organisation operates safely, effectively, efficiently and sustainably as it continues to grow.
This is a strategic and hands-on operational role overseeing organisational systems, support governance, HR, compliance, health & safety, programme management support and internal operations.
Working closely with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will help manage the organisations systems and culture needed to support high-quality delivery across a growing environmental charity.
The role will suit someone who thrives in dynamic organisations, enjoys problem solving and optimising systems, understanding and making sense of complexity, and is motivated by supporting teams to deliver meaningful impact and achieving the organisations goals.
Key Responsibilities
Organisational Leadership & Operations
- Lead and oversee day-to-day organisational operations across the Trust
- Develop and improve internal systems, processes and operational procedures
- Support organisational planning and delivery against BART’s strategic objectives
- Work closely with the CEO and senior managers to support organisational growth and resilience
- Contribute to organisational decision-making and leadership culture
People & HR Management
- Oversee HR systems, policies and procedures
- Support recruitment, onboarding and staff development processes
- Help foster a positive, inclusive and high-performing workplace culture
- Support managers with operational people-management matters
- Coordinate staff wellbeing and professional development initiatives
Governance & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with charity, company and employment regulations
- Support the CEO with governance processes, trustee reporting and organisational policies
- Oversee organisational risk management systems
- Ensure appropriate insurance, contracts and compliance frameworks are in place
- Lead on operational health & safety systems and organisational compliance
Organisational Systems
- Support organisational budgeting and financial monitoring alongside the finance and Senior Leadership team
- Oversee operational procurement and contract management systems
- Support implementation and optimisation of organisational systems, including Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and IT systems including cyber security
- Improve internal reporting and programme coordination systems
Programme & Delivery Support
- Support operational coordination across BART programmes and projects
- Help ensure teams are appropriately resourced and supported
- Improve organisational project management systems and workflows
- Support efficient collaboration across delivery teams
- Contribute to organisational development opportunities and partnerships
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Skills
- Significant experience in operational management, organisational leadership or business management
- Experience developing and improving organisational systems and processes
- Strong understanding of governance, compliance and organisational risk management
- Experience supporting HR and people-management processes
- Excellent organisational and project management skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to work strategically while also being comfortable with operational detail
- Experience managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and organisational software systems
Desirable Experience
- Experience working within the environmental, charity or public sector
- Knowledge of charity governance and funding environments
- Experience supporting organisational growth and change management
- Familiarity with CRM systems and operational databases
- Understanding of health & safety systems within field-based organisations
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone who:
- Is highly organised, proactive and solutions-focused
- Enjoys enabling others to succeed
- Can balance strategic thinking with practical delivery
- Is calm and adaptable in a growing organisation
- Has strong emotional intelligence and leadership skills
- Wants to help a small organisation grow and deliver its goal of restoring rivers, landscapes and communities
Why Join BART?
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of one of the UK’s growing rivers trusts at a pivotal stage in its development.
You’ll join a passionate and ambitious team delivering meaningful environmental change across the Bristol Avon catchment, while helping build the organisational foundations needed for long-term impact.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas close
- Flexible and hybrid working
- 9% Employer pension contribution
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Employee wellbeing support
- Opportunity to shape a growing organisation with real environmental impact
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported.
We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and communities, particularly those underrepresented within the environmental sector.
How to Apply
Please send a CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role before 11:59pm on Friday 19th June to:
Simon Hunter
Chief Executive Officer
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Email: info@bristolavonriverstrust.org
Please include “Head of Operations Application” in the subject line.
Further Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:
Simon Hunter
Chief Executive Officer
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Email: simon@bristolavonriverstrust.org
To learn more about our work, visit:
Catchment Project Officer
About Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust is an independent environmental charity dedicated to restoring and protecting the rivers of the Bristol Avon catchment for people and wildlife.
We work across urban and rural landscapes to deliver practical river restoration, natural flood management, climate resilience, biodiversity recovery and community engagement projects at a catchment scale. Our work ranges from removing barriers to fish migration and restoring river habitat, through to supporting regenerative farming, creating wetlands and woodlands, and engaging communities in citizen science and environmental action.
We are a practical, ambitious and collaborative organisation that believes healthy rivers are essential for thriving communities, resilient landscapes and nature recovery.
Our work is organised across a number of strategic themes (more information included in the Trust’s 5 Year Strategy: https://bristolavonriverstrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/BART-5-year-strategy-simple-navigation.pdf):
Understanding our Rivers
- Monitoring water quality, habitat quality alongside ecology
- Undertaking walkover and ground truthing surveys to identify challenges and opportunities
- Engaging communities and landowners to gain local knowledge
Restoring our Rivers
- Delivering river restoration and fish passage projects
- Re-naturalising rivers and reconnecting floodplains
- Improving water quality and habitat resilience
Recovering our Landscapes
- Delivering nature-based solutions and natural flood management
- Supporting regenerative agriculture and farm clusters
- Creating wetlands, riparian woodlands and habitat mosaics
Empowering Communities
- Delivering citizen science and river engagement programmes
- Supporting volunteers and local partnerships
- Inspiring the next generation of river guardians
The Role
Job Title
Catchment Restoration Officer
Location
Hybrid working – home based with regular travel across the Bristol Avon catchment and attendance at BART office (central Bristol) and multiple project locations.
Reports to
Catchment Restoration Project Manager
Salary
£29,000 – £32,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Contract Type
Permanent
Working Arrangements
Full-time role (37.5 hours per week) with flexible working arrangements.
Overall Purpose of the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join Bristol Avon Rivers Trust and lead the development and delivery of ambitious river restoration and nature recovery projects across the Bristol Avon catchment.
The Catchment Restoration Officer will play a central role in planning and delivering practical habitat restoration and natural flood management initiatives, working closely with landowners, farmers, local authorities, regulators, contractors and community partners.
Projects may include:
- River restoration and re-naturalisation
- Fish passage and barrier easement projects
- Wetland and floodplain creation
- Natural flood management measures
- Woodland and riparian habitat creation
- Catchment resilience and climate adaptation projects
You will be expected to work collaboratively across the team and partnerships to identify opportunities, develop projects, secure permissions and oversee delivery on the ground.
This role would suit someone who is passionate about rivers and landscapes, enjoys practical project delivery and relationship building, and wants to help shape the future of catchment restoration across the region.
Key Responsibilities
Project Development & Delivery
- Lead the development and delivery of catchment restoration projects from concept through to implementation
- Undertake site visits and identify opportunities for river and habitat enhancement
- Develop practical restoration plans and project specifications
- Procure and manage contractors and consultants
- Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget
- Support project monitoring, reporting and evaluation
Landowner & Stakeholder Engagement
- Build strong working relationships with landowners, farmers and partner organisations
- Provide informed advice on river restoration and nature-based solutions
- Facilitate collaborative approaches to catchment-scale delivery
- Represent BART at meetings, workshops and events
Partnership Working
- Work collaboratively with local authorities, the Environment Agency, Natural England, water companies and environmental partners
- Support wider catchment partnerships and strategic programmes
- Contribute to funding development and partnership opportunities
Technical & Operational
- Support GIS mapping, habitat assessments and project planning
- Lead on obtaining permissions and consenting processes
- Maintain accurate project records and reporting information
- Oversee contractors undertaking work
- Lead the installation of river restoration and Natural Flood Management interventions
- Manage health and safety compliance across project delivery
Person Specification
Essential Skills & Experience
- Experience delivering river, environmental or habitat restoration projects
- Strong understanding of river and catchment processes
- Experience working with landowners and external stakeholders
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
- Experience managing contractors and project budgets
- Competent in Microsoft Office and digital mapping tools
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regularly
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience in river restoration or natural flood management
- Knowledge of UK environmental legislation and consenting
- Experience securing EA and local authority permits to undertake works
- GIS experience
- Experience developing funding applications or reporting to funders
- Practical fieldwork and survey experience
- Understanding of agricultural land management systems
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone who:
- Is passionate about restoring rivers and landscapes
- Is practical, proactive and solutions-focused
- Enjoys working collaboratively with a wide range of people
- Is comfortable working both independently and within a team
- Wants to make a tangible difference for nature and communities
- Thrives in a dynamic and evolving organisation
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and additional Christmas close period
- 9% Employer pension contribution
- Flexible and hybrid working
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Mileage reimbursement for work travel
- A supportive and passionate team environment
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and communities, particularly those currently underrepresented within the environmental sector.
How to Apply
Please send a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role before 11:59pm on Friday 19th June to:
Lana Harding
Catchment Project Manager
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Email: lana@bristolavonriverstrust.org
Please include “Catchment Restoration Officer Application” in the subject line.
Further Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Lana Harding at:
Email: lana@bristolavonriverstrust.org
To learn more about our work, visit:
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust Website
We look forward to hearing from candidates who want to help shape a healthier, more resilient future for the Bristol Avon catchment.
Head of Programmes
About Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust is an independent environmental charity dedicated to restoring and protecting the rivers of the Bristol Avon catchment for people and wildlife.
We work across urban and rural landscapes to deliver practical river restoration, natural flood management, climate resilience, biodiversity recovery and community engagement projects at a catchment scale. Our work ranges from removing barriers to fish migration and restoring river habitat, through to supporting regenerative farming, creating wetlands and woodlands, and engaging communities in citizen science and environmental action.
As the Trust continues to grow in ambition, scale and impact, we are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Programmes to lead the development and delivery of BART’s expanding portfolio of environmental programmes and partnerships.
The Role
Job Title
Head of Programmes
Location
Hybrid working – with regular travel across the Bristol Avon catchment and attendance at BART offices, project sites and partner meetings.
Reports to
Chief Executive Officer
Salary
£50,000 per annum
Contract Type
Permanent
Hours
Full-time (37.5 hours per week)
Flexible working arrangements considered.
Purpose of the Role
The Head of Programmes will provide strategic leadership across BART’s programme portfolio, overseeing the development, coordination and delivery of major environmental and community-based initiatives across the Bristol Avon catchment.
The role will lead teams which deliver planning and delivery across areas including:
- River restoration
- Natural flood management
- Climate resilience
- Nature recovery
- Catchment partnerships
- Sustainable farming and land management
- Community engagement and citizen science
Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team, the postholder will help shape the strategic direction of the Trust, strengthen delivery partnerships, secure investment and ensure programmes are delivered effectively, collaboratively and to a high standard.
This is both a strategic and operational leadership role, requiring strong programme management capability alongside excellent relationship-building and organisational skills.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Programme Leadership
- Lead and oversee BART’s portfolio of programmes and strategic projects
- Support the development and delivery of BART’s organisational strategy and annual business planning
- Ensure programmes align with organisational priorities, funder requirements and partnership objectives
- Identify opportunities for programme growth, innovation and impact
- Support the development of long-term catchment-scale delivery programmes
Programme & Project Oversight
- Oversee programme delivery across multiple teams and thematic areas
- Support programme managers and project leads to deliver projects effectively
- Monitor programme performance, risks, budgets and reporting requirements
- Ensure programmes are delivered on time, within budget and to agreed outcomes
- Improve internal programme management systems and delivery processes
Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with funders, local authorities, regulators, landowners and strategic partners
- Represent BART at partnership boards, strategic meetings and public forums
- Support collaborative programme development across the catchment
- Help position BART as a leading delivery partner within the region
Funding & Programme Development
- Support the identification and development of funding opportunities
- Contribute to major funding applications and investment proposals
- Help develop blended finance and long-term programme sustainability approaches
- Support strategic reporting to funders and partners
Team Leadership & Organisational Development
- Provide leadership, support and mentorship to programme and project staff
- Foster a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture
- Support organisational learning and continuous improvement
- Contribute to wider organisational leadership and decision-making
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Skills
- Experience within the environmental, rivers, conservation or charity sector
- Understanding of river restoration, catchment management or nature recovery
- Experience managing complex environmental, community or river restoration programmes
- Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to think strategically while managing operational delivery
- Strong organisational and prioritisation skills
- Experience working collaboratively across sectors and organisations
Desirable Experience
- Experience developing major funding bids and partnership programmes
- Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and partnerships
- Knowledge of public sector and environmental funding mechanisms
- Experience overseeing budgets, reporting and programme governance
- Strong programme and project management skills
- Experience working with landowners, local authorities and environmental regulators
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone who:
- Is strategic, collaborative and solutions-focused
- Enjoys building partnerships and bringing people together
- Has strong leadership and organisational skills
- Is passionate about river and catchment recovery and community impact
- Thrives in a growing and evolving organisation
- Wants to help shape the future of catchment-scale recovery across the Bristol Avon landscape
Why Join BART?
This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role within one of the UK’s growing rivers trusts at a pivotal moment in its development.
You will help shape and deliver ambitious programmes that improve rivers, landscapes and communities across the Bristol Avon catchment, while helping build the long-term resilience and impact of the Trust.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas close
- Flexible and hybrid working
- 9% Employer pension contribution
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Employee wellbeing support
- Opportunity to shape large-scale environmental programmes with meaningful impact
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported.
We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and communities, particularly those underrepresented within the environmental sector.
How to Apply
Please send a CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role before 11:59pm on Friday 26th June to:
Email: info@bristolavonriverstrust.org
Please include “Head of Programmes Application” in the subject line.
Further Information
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:
Simon Hunter
Chief Executive Officer
Bristol Avon Rivers Trust
Email: simon.hunter@bristolavonriverstrust.org
To learn more about our work, visit:
