Join our Conservation Special Interest Group.

The SIGs are discipline-specific arms of the Society, which are run by motivated volunteers from academia, charity, government, education, and industry. The SIGs’ remit is to engage BES members and non-members associated with a specific area of ecology, and develop activities that meet the broad strategic aims of the Society. The Society funds SIG activities, as well as providing advice and support. In return, SIG activities should proactively engage members, raise the profile of the BES, and promote it as a dynamic and inclusive society.

We have an exciting opportunity available to lead the activities of our Conservation Special Interest Group. The Conservation SIG has a great track record of engaging a wide range of ecologists across disciplines and running successful events throughout the year. Being part of our SIGs also gives you the opportunity to work more closely with BES staff, who are able to provide support and advice using their experience, to ensure your events are as successful as possible.

The success of a SIG hinges on the dedication of the secretary and their committee and you will be responsible for:

• Appointing & keeping records of a deputy and SIG committee members up to date.
• Representing the SIG at the May and October SIG sessions run by the BES, as well as the BES Annual Meeting.
• Maintaining up-to-date mailing lists or other forms of contact with members.
• Sending updates to the BES on events, committee members, and other relevant information for the SIG webpage and the membership magazine.
• Responding promptly to requests from BES staff for information, copy and reports.
• Sharing all relevant information about requirements for SIG activities and budgeting with the SIG committee and event organisers.
• Authorising event expenditure and ensuring SIG events conform to funding rules and are kept within budget.
• Ensuring that event proposals, reports and budgets are complete, and submitted to MC within two months of the event and before the September budget deadline.
• The SIG secretary can delegate these responsibilities to specific committee members, but must ensure the BES office is updated on responsibilities.

To Apply

If you are interested in becoming the next Conservation SIG secretary, could you please send:

1. A cover letter detailing your motivations and commitment to the role
2. A one pager detailing how you would run this SIG for the next 12 months, should you be chosen to be the next Secretary.

All applications must be sent to SIGS@britishecologicalsociety.org by the deadline: Midday (BST), Monday 16 July.

Applications will be passed to an appointment committee, who will decide on who the next Secretary should be. Decisions will be made by Monday 21 July, with a start date by 01 August at the latest.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.