Victor Hyde
What employment sector do you work in?
Public Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
1.5 years
Salary Range
£30,001 – £40,000
Please describe the work that you do.
I work with a range of amazing farmers and landowners in Dorset to prevent agricultural pollution to the River Stour.
This is achieved through visiting farms, offering free advice on a range of topics. Advice includes slurry management for dairy and beef farms, and preventing fertiliser, soil and pesticide run-off from arable farms.
We also organise events, encouraging farmers to share knowledge, experience and work together.
We also play a crucial role in approving public funded grants
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
Firstly, there is no better office than visiting farms on a sunny day! When combined with receiving positive feedback from a farmer and seeing the environmental benefit, it makes it a job I absolutely love.
We also sometimes help with mental health, which is a huge privilege. Farming can be a challenging industry. After visiting, farmers feel reassured and supported. We can signpost to support services where needed
Sometimes it can be a challenge to work with government grants, as policy can change the way a grant works, but generally farmers are understanding that we are always there to advise and support to the best of our ability.
What inspired you into this career?
I grew up in Dorset and as a child I spent much of my time swimming and canoeing in the River Stour – I soon developed a love for the environment. I was aware of issues such as nutrient pollution and I wanted to make a difference. All these years later, I feel I am.
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
I am still early in my career and I am focusing on developing my knowledge, skills and experience.
It seems that people love working for Natural England and so stay for a long time, which is great but it means opportunities for development within the team can sometimes be limited, however opportunities are there if you look.
What education/training did you have?
I firstly studied a degree in environmental science at Bournemouth University.
I then studied a master’s degree in water science, policy and management at The University of Oxford.
A degree can provide you with knowledge and skills but the application considers experience and your personality too.
I didn’t know loads about farming previously, but this I learnt on the job.
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
Find what you love and go for it! If you enjoy a subject and are passionate about it, then you are much more likely to succeed and enjoy your job.
A degree was my way into the profession but environmental experience/volunteering/farming experience is highly valued too.
There are many ways that you can show you are passionate about a subject, being enthusiastic is important when applying for jobs.
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Tags: England, Public sector, Environmental adviser, Farm environment adviser
Date profile submitted: 13/05/2025
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