Agenda item

Director of Natural Environment to be heard.

The Committee received a verbal update of the Natural Environment Director.

The Natural Environment Director covered several topics in the meeting, including a staffing update, operational property review, and natural capital audit. The key highlights include welcoming the Superintendent and acknowledging the contributions of interim leadership. Additionally, the new Head of Operations, and, new Assistant Director for Charities and Commercials, were introduced.

In terms of recruitment, it was noted that progress has been made, with 28 staff recently appointed, and further recruitments in progress. Discussion then moved to the natural environment, vision, mission, and strategies development. The Natural Environment Director informed the Committee that the focus was on creating a shared vision and mission for the division, with proposed themes including nature conservation, community engagement, access and recreation, and culture, heritage, and learning. Members noted that the draft would be presented to the Natural Environment Board for approval in January, with a goal of wider dissemination thereafter.

In response to a question raised by a Member, officers noted that the update on leadership for North London Open Spaces indicated that about 90% of the roles had been filled, with one key position remaining. Members were informed that the recruitment process had seen significant progress, and most staff teams were in place or undergoing training and induction. It was noted that efforts were being made to implement a robust training and induction program, including general corporation training and tailored sessions for the North London Open Spaces teams.

RESOLVED – That, the update be noted.