Cumbria Nature Finance Strategic Lead

The Cumbria County Council; Kendal; Hybrid; GBP 51,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in the UK seeks a Strategic Lead for Nature Finance to guide innovative ecosystem service projects. You will lead partnerships, manage governance structures, and engage stakeholders to unlock development opportunities. The ideal candidate possesses leadership skills, innovative thinking, and excellent communication abilities. This temporary full-time position offers a competitive salary, along with benefits such as a pension scheme and enhanced leave allowance. Apply by January 25, 2026 for an opportunity to interview both in-person and virtually.

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Enhanced annual leave allowance

Discount schemes

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading joint ventures or partnership projects.
• Ability to navigate complex decision-making processes.
• Capability to adapt to changing market conditions.

Responsibilities

• Lead a joint venture between local authorities and nature partners.
• Guide decision-making processes for project outcomes.
• Build national relationships with stakeholders and developers.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Innovative thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Cumbria Nature Finance Strategic Lead – WMF2530i

Job reference: REQ00000019409

Date posted: 09/01/2026 | Closing date: 25/01/2026

Location: Various Locations (Barrow, Kendal or Penrith) | Contract type: Temporary – 7 month fixed term | Salary: £51,356 - £52,413 | Basis: Full time, 37 h/week

About this opportunity

Westmorland and Furness Council, in partnership with Cumberland Council, the Lake District National Park Authority, and Cumbria Wildlife Trust, is developing a mechanism to bring nature‑based ecosystem services to market, leveraging Biodiversity Net Gain and Nutrient Neutrality. The role will lead the next steps to bring units and credits to the market, supporting the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) and unlocking landowner participation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a joint venture between local authorities and nature partners, establishing governance and finance structures.
• Guide the mechanism through decision‑making processes and deliver outcomes for all partners.
• Think innovatively to adapt to a rapidly changing market and seize opportunities in the Cumbrian landscape.
• Communicate effectively, represent Cumbria nationally and build relationships with developers, buyers, and stakeholders.

What we can offer you

Competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance, and other perks and discount schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council, visit our Careers site.

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 25th January 2026

Interview date: WC 2nd February 2026. Interviews are offered both in‑person and virtual; details will be shared with short‑listed candidates.

Safer Recruitment & DBS

Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to improving the diversity of our workforce, welcoming applications from everyone and promoting an inclusive culture. We offer guaranteed interviews to disabled applicants who meet essential criteria, as well as to Armed Forces personnel, veterans, individuals who have been in care or care experienced, and those under 24 years old who have been looked after by a local authority.

• Post Specification
• Role Profile