We are very pleased to confirm that we have recently added two more ecologists to the Baker Consultants team as we continue our investment in early-career talent. Each of the new starters bring their own strengths and are starting their career in consultancy via very different routes. Matthew Keough joins us on a Level-7 Ecology Apprenticeship and Robin Denton as Assistant Ecologist.
Gavin Ward, Consultancy Director said “Home grown talent has served the business extremely well over the last ten years but this is the first time we have enrolled an Ecology Apprentice. Baker Consultants has a reputation for innovation and a robust scientific approach to all our project work so this fitted well with employing an Apprentice to learn consultancy skills alongside their MSc.”
A graduate of Leicester University, Matthew will be working as part of the permanent team while he completes a two-year part-time MSc in Land and Ecological Restoration through Cornwall College, the only Level-7 Ecology Apprenticeship in the country. Baker Consultants seeks to employ individuals who show enthusiasm to learn and develop specialist skills and Matthew’s particular interest in botany and mycology complement the team. Quality botany skills are increasingly important in the sector and are vital for underpinning the emerging services relating to Biodiversity Net Gain.
Assistant Ecologist, Robin Denton, has been supporting the Baker Consultants team as a seasonal surveyor throughout the year and has shown professionalism, an eagerness to learn and the knack of picking up new skills effectively. “With a growing orderbook we didn’t want to risk losing Robin over the traditionally quieter winter months, so we snapped him up and are looking forward to giving him plenty of support and learning opportunities in the run-up to what will be another busy year in 2023”, continued Gavin.
Look out for regular updates from Matthew documenting his journey in his “Diary of an Apprentice”. He will be keeping track of his learning and commenting on life as an Ecology Apprentice – we look forward to seeing how he gets on.
If you’re also keen to join our flexible, supportive and award-winning ecology team (regardless of grade and location) then please get in touch with Gavin Ward (Consultancy Director) on 07795 122 464 for an informal chat about what we can offer. Alternatively, take a look at the vacancies on our Careers page and then send your CV and Covering letter to jobs@bakerconsultants.co.uk to apply.