We’re looking for a Business Development Manager to drive forward our exciting Destination Reserves programme, a bold and innovative initiative to reimagine some of Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s flagship nature reserves as vibrant visitor destinations that support conservation, wellbeing, and sustainable income.
About the Role:
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead the transformation of how our nature reserves are used and valued, turning them into destination experiences for both local communities and visitors to Cornwall. You’ll shape and deliver an ambitious business development plan to:
- Design and implement income-generating visitor experiences that enhance engagement with nature.
- Develop strategic partnerships with tourism and conservation partners, local businesses and investors.
- Explore and deliver commercial opportunities (such as eco-tourism, events, education and retail) in harmony with conservation priorities.
- Collaborate cross-organisationally to embed innovation, inclusion, and impact.
- Contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Trust by increasing unrestricted income.
About You
We’re looking for someone with:
- A proven track record in business development, enterprise, tourism or visitor experience management, ideally in a charitable or environmental context.
- Strong commercial acumen, creativity, and a passion for nature.
- The ability to think strategically, manage projects from concept to delivery, and engage diverse stakeholders with confidence.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and partnership-building skills.
Most importantly, you’ll be someone who genuinely embodies our values:
- bringing integrity to every relationship and decision,
- thriving through collaboration with colleagues and partners,
- approaching challenges with optimism and creativity,
- leading and supporting others through empowerment, and
- taking clear accountability for delivering positive outcomes for people and nature.
Why Join Us?
Cornwall Wildlife Trust is the leading conservation charity in Cornwall, with over 60 years of protecting and celebrating our region’s incredible wildlife and wild places. You’ll be joining us at a pivotal time as we deliver our 2030 Strategy and build a more inclusive and sustainable future for nature and people.
We offer:
A flexible, supportive working culture
Opportunities to make a real impact in Cornwall’s nature recovery
A passionate and committed team environment
Generous annual leave and pension scheme
A role with purpose, creativity, and opportunity for growth
Benefits:
- Cornwall Wildlife Trust operates excellent toil and flexible working policies
- Enhanced company holiday entitlement – starting at 25 days plus bank holidays and rising to a maximum 30 days over a period of time (1 day extra for each year worked after 4 complete years served)
- 3 days Christmas Business Closure for 2025
- All employees have access to the Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 counselling service) and Employee health and wellbeing portal
- Free onsite parking at Five Acres
- Stakeholder pension scheme (subject to eligibility)
To Apply:
Ready to lead this exciting transformation?
Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability to recruitment@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk by Midnight on Sunday 6 July 2025
If you would like to arrange an informal conversation about the role, please contact Joanne Greaves, Head of People and Culture, at joanne.greaves@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk
Interviews will be held week commencing the 14 July 2025 at our Headquarters in Allet.
Together, we can create a wilder Cornwall where nature and people thrive.
Disability Confident Employer:
At Cornwall Wildlife Trust, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace that values diversity and champions the unique talents of every individual. As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to our collective success.
As part of our commitment to accessibility, we offer alternative formats for the application process, ensuring that individuals with varying needs can apply with ease. Whether you prefer an alternative application form, Braille, large print, or any other format that suits your requirements, we are here to accommodate you.
Moreover, our interview process is designed to be supportive and considerate. We understand that everyone has different requirements, and we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to ensure a comfortable and accessible interview experience. If you have specific needs or preferences, please let us know in advance, and we will do our utmost to accommodate them.
By choosing to be part of our team, you are joining an organisation that prioritises inclusivity and values the unique contributions of every team member. We celebrate diversity and recognise that our differences make us stronger. Apply now to embark on a journey with us, where your abilities are celebrated, and your individuality is embraced.
Equal Opportunities:
We are committed to ensuring transparent and non-discriminatory recruitment and employment. As a progressive charitable organisation, we champion equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of any protected characteristic.