Gerard O'Brien
Coleford,Gloucestershire
Summary
Experienced Forest Ranger with years of field-based work, combining ecological awareness, public engagement and partnership working within woodland environments. Skilled in delivering environmental education, supporting ecological surveys and collaborating with organisations including Forestry England, Wildlife Trusts and Natural England.
Direct experience supporting species recovery initiatives, including Pine Marten reintroduction and bat conservation projects, alongside a strong academic foundation in Environmental Studies (BA Hons 2:1). Passionate about nature recovery and now seeking to contribute more directly to species conservation and habitat restoration.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
14
14
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Forest Ranger
Forest Holidays
Coleford, Gloucestershire
03.2015 - Current
- Delivered immersive, nature-based experiences, fostering public understanding of woodland ecosystems and biodiversity
- Conducted ecological surveys including bats, birds, reptiles and invertebrates
- Developed and maintained partnerships with organisations including Forestry England, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and Butterfly Conservation
- Delivered outreach presentations across Gloucestershire to a range of community groups
- Supported day-to-day operations, ensuring high standards of safety, organisation and guest experience
- Educate on wildlife and environmental matters by engaging with a diverse range of individuals
- Assisted in resolving incidents and maintaining calm, professional responses in high-pressure situations
Team Leader
The Co-Operative Group
Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LEC
05.2012 - 02.2015
- Supervised staff and supported daily operations in a fast-paced retail environment
- Managed performance, customer service and operational standards
- Took responsibility for security and cash handling
- Worked proactively with partnership team to implement community projects and raise awareness of environmental initiatives such as Pollinator Patch campaign
Head Ranger
Conkers Environmental Education Centre
Moira, Leicestershire
06.2007 - 10.2011
- Led delivery of environmental education programmes to large groups, including approximately 40,000 school children annually
- Liaison with Education Professionals to ensure that activities stayed in line with National Curriculum.
- Managed woodland and wetland areas, including health & safety and habitat maintenance
- Worked collaboratively with conservation organisations such as the National Forest and Butterfly Conservation to enhance biodiversity on site
- Developed activity programmes and secured funding through corporate partnerships
- Networked with corporate partners such as John Lewis and Toyota to achieve funding for conservation projects
Infantry Soldier
Irish Defence Forces
The Curragh Camp, Co. Kildare
12.1996 - 12.2001
- Operated in high-pressure and challenging environments, maintaining discipline and focus
- Completed international deployments and humanitarian support roles
- Prepared for military action at short notice
- Involved in humanitarian assistance roles such as delivering water and food to orphanages and schools
- Drove on military convoy on cash, prisoner and explosive escorts
- Developed strong teamwork, resilience and situational awareness
Education
Level 3 National Vocational Qualification in Environmental Conservation - Environment
SLIC Training
Leicestershire, UK 06.2008 - 06.2011
Ten Directions Certificate in Environmental Based Therapy - Eco-therapy
Tariki Trust
Remote Learning 03.2021 - 06.2022
Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Environmental Studies - Environment
The Open University
Remote Learning 09.2014 - 06.2020
Certified Forest Therapy Guide - Eco-therapy
Global Institute of Forest Therapy
Forest of Dean, UK 06.2019 - 04.2020
Level 3 Certificate in Leading Forest School - Environment
Wild Learning
Coventry 03.2016 - 06.2017
ACA National Park Ranger Certification - Environment
Peak District National Park
High Peak, Derbyshire 03.2013 - 03.2015
Skills
- Problem-solving
- Team building
- Strategic Planning
- Resourcefulness
- Knowledge of Environmental matters
- Awareness of Nature Based Solutions
- Safety-conscious
- Leadership expertise
- Injury management
- Excellent communicator
- Team player
- Attention to Detail
- Adaptable
- Active listening
Personal Information
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Ten Directions Certificate in Environmental Based Therapy - Eco-therapy
Tariki Trust
03.2021 - 06.2022
Certified Forest Therapy Guide - Eco-therapy
Global Institute of Forest Therapy
06.2019 - 04.2020
Level 3 Certificate in Leading Forest School - Environment
Wild Learning
03.2016 - 06.2017
Forest Ranger
Forest Holidays
03.2015 - Current
Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Environmental Studies - Environment
The Open University
09.2014 - 06.2020
ACA National Park Ranger Certification - Environment
Peak District National Park
03.2013 - 03.2015
Team Leader
The Co-Operative Group
05.2012 - 02.2015
Level 3 National Vocational Qualification in Environmental Conservation - Environment
SLIC Training
06.2008 - 06.2011
Head Ranger
Conkers Environmental Education Centre
06.2007 - 10.2011
Infantry Soldier
Irish Defence Forces
12.1996 - 12.2001