We’re recruiting an experienced Land Agent to join the Estates team in Forestry England’s South District .
This is a senior professional role offering real influence , variety and the opportunity to manage some of the most significant rural and environmental assets in England , including land within the New Forest National Park .
We’re looking for a confident, commercially aware Land Agent who can combine strong technical expertise with leadership capability.
In this role, you’ll provide professional estate management and property advice across a large and diverse portfolio spanning Surrey, Hampshire, West Sussex and Berkshire, with wider coverage across the South District. You’ll work closely with senior leaders and multidisciplinary teams, playing a key role in shaping how Forestry England manages, protects and derives value from its land and built assets.
You will:
• Lead and manage the District Estates team alongside another Area Land Agent, including line management responsibilities
• Act as cost centre manager for the Estates budget, overseeing annual and five year business planning
• Manage a wide -ranging portfolio of residential, agricultural and commercial properties
• Negotiate and renew leases, licences, wayleaves and agreements
• Lead on land acquisitions and disposals, securing best value outcomes
• Undertake RICS Red Book valuations for financial and internal purposes
• Handle legal and compensation claims in liaison with solicitors
• Identify development and income generating opportunities aligned with government policy
• Support delivery of Forestry England’s Energy Strategy and low carbon ambitions
• Contribute as a member of the District senior leadership team
• Chartered membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS or FRICS)
• Degree (or equivalent) in Rural Estate Management or a related discipline
• Proven experience in rural or general practice estate management
• RICS Registered Valuer status
• Fellow of the Association of Agricultural Valuers
• Experience using GIS and strong IT skills
• Understanding of sustainable forest management
We’re keen to hear from candidates who are collaborative, decisive and comfortable working within sensitive, high -profile landscapes.
This is a standout role because it offers:
Responsibility for unique, nationally important assets
Significant autonomy and professional trust
A supportive, values led organisation with long term purpose
Flexible and blended working arrangements
Excellent development and progression opportunities
• Salary: £48,765 – £52,557
• 25–30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and additional leave
• Generous Civil Service pension (minimum 20% employer contribution)
• Paid professional membership fees
• Family friendly policies and wellbeing support
• Structured learning and development, including five dedicated learning days per year
