RBBP on the search for a new secretary

After almost 14 years of distinguished service, Mark Holling will soon be standing down as Secretary of the Rare Breeding Birds Panel (RBBP). RBBP is therefore seeking a new Secretary to take over in spring 2020.

The successful candidate is likely to be a well-respected, experienced and knowledgeable member of the ornithological community who would be able to command the respect and trust of the local bird recording community and data managers for bird clubs and groups, raptor study groups, Licensing Agency staff and others providing confidential data on rare breeding birds.

The RBBP Secretary confidentially and professionally compiles data of rare breeding species such as Slavonian Grebe (John Dickenson).

Duties include liaison with all data providers over records of rare breeding birds, compilation of data, maintenance of a confidential database, communication to a range of audiences about the Panel's activities and production of annual reports, including the one published in British Birds.

The Secretary deals with highly confidential data and it is essential that the affairs of the Panel are handled with sensitivity and a high level of integrity. IT skills and competence in database management are essential, as is web-editing experience or aptitude. Suitable candidates are likely to have considerable experience of birds and bird conservation in the UK, be good communicators and will understand fully the issues surrounding records of rare breeding birds.

The post is paid under a self-employed contract on a part-time basis supported by the funding partners (currently RSPB, JNCC and BTO) and involves around 125 days' work per year. If you are interested in the role and believe you have the skills and experience needed, you can find out more here.

The closing date for applications is 19 January 2020.

The Rare Breeding Birds Panel website can be visited at www.rbbp.org.uk.