JOB PURPOSE:
Support the acquisition of land rights necessary for the development and expansion of energy and network infrastructure projects across the UK. This involves assisting in negotiating with landowners, stakeholders, and other key parties to secure property and land rights. Additionally, provide support in planning and consenting processes, ensuring that all projects comply with relevant regulations and meet the strategic goals of the business. Engage with Local Authorities, utility companies, and communities to facilitate smooth project progression.
CONTEXT:
The Assistant Land Manager will operate in a dynamic environment focused on the expansion and maintenance of energy infrastructure. This role requires a balance between learning technical expertise in land management, understanding renewable energy and energy network infrastructure needs, and developing strong negotiation skills. The position demands proactive involvement in land acquisition processes, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of land rights to support our clients' projects. The Assistant Land Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams and will provide support to senior staff or support teams as needed.
JOB CHALLENGE:
The Assistant Land Manager will assist in managing multiple land acquisition projects simultaneously, often under tight deadlines and within complex regulatory frameworks. The role requires the ability to navigate competing priorities and ensure that land acquisition processes align with the broader strategic objectives of the company. This position will involve significant travel across the UK to meet with landowners, conduct site assessments, and attend meetings with stakeholders. The Assistant Land Manager must be adept at building relationships and negotiating favorable terms, while also ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
1. Land Acquisition and Management:
Assist in identifying and engaging with landowners to negotiate and secure land rights essential for energy projects.
Support the development and implementation of land acquisition strategies that align with project timelines and budget constraints.
Help draft and negotiate Heads of Terms for options, leases, servitude/easements, and freehold purchases, collaborating closely with legal teams.
Maintain strong relationships with landowners, agents, and other key stakeholders to facilitate smooth land acquisition processes.
Work closely with technical teams to ensure land acquisition aligns with network design and operational requirements.
2. Planning and Consents Support:
Support the planning and consenting process for energy projects, ensuring all necessary permissions are obtained in a timely manner.
Engage with Local Authorities, statutory bodies, and other stakeholders to address any issues related to land use and planning.
Assist in the preparation and submission of planning applications, environmental impact assessments, and other necessary documentation.
Monitor and manage the progress of consents and permissions, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
3. Risk Management:
Assist in the identification and assessment of potential risks related to land acquisition and planning, developing strategies to mitigate these risks.
Ensure that all land acquisition activities comply with legal, regulatory, and company requirements.
Conduct regular reviews of land acquisition processes to identify areas for improvement and ensure best practices are followed.
4. Reporting and Documentation:
Maintain comprehensive records of all land acquisition activities, including negotiations, contracts, and communications with stakeholders.
Prepare regular reports for senior management on the status of land acquisition projects, highlighting any risks or issues.
Ensure all documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and accessible for review by internal and external stakeholders.
5. Continuous Improvement:
Contribute to the development of processes and systems that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of land acquisition activities.
Stay updated on industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in land management and network development.
Support a culture of continuous improvement within the team, encouraging innovation and the adoption of new approaches.
6. Supplier and Relationship Management:
Manage relationships with external consultants, service providers, and contractors to ensure high-quality and cost-effective services.
Support the negotiation of contracts and service agreements with external parties, ensuring alignment with project goals and budget constraints.
Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders to support successful project delivery.
RELATIONSHIPS:
Internal:
Reports to the Department Head.
Collaborates with project design, operational, and administrative teams to ensure successful project delivery.
Works closely with other department heads to align land acquisition activities with overall business objectives.
Provides updates and reports to senior management on the progress of land acquisition and related activities.
External:
Engages with landowners, agents, and other key stakeholders to secure land rights.
Liaises with Local Authorities, statutory bodies, and community groups to support planning and consenting processes.
Manages relationships with external consultants, contractors, and service providers to ensure project success.
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Land Management, Real Estate, Planning, or a related field.
Working towards professional qualification (e.g., RICS, RTPI) is preferred.
Experience:
Demonstrate an understanding of land acquisition or land management, preferably within the energy or utilities sector.
Familiarity with planning and consenting processes, particularly in relation to network infrastructure.
Skills:
Strong communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Excellent time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Proficient in the use of MS Office, GIS, and other relevant software tools.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a proactive and flexible approach.
Willingness to travel extensively across the UK and hold a valid UK Driver's License.
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