Crofting and Land Officer

**About South Uist Estates**

South Uist Estates is the Company that operates the business interests of the Community Buy Out company, encompassing South Uist, Eriskay, and parts of Benbecula. As a community-owned organisation, SUE is committed to sustainable land management, crofting support, and the preservation of cultural and environmental heritage.

**Role Overview**

The Crofting and Land Officer will lead and oversee all aspects of crofting and land administration across the estate. This strategic role involves managing relationships with crofters, regulatory bodies, and legal representatives, ensuring compliance with crofting legislation, and supporting community development through effective land stewardship.

**Key Responsibilities**
- Oversee all crofting administration, including regulatory compliance, rent management, and record keeping.
- Liaise with the Crofting Commission, Grazing Committees, and company solicitors on crofting and land matters.
- Manage commercial leases, land sales, and acquisitions in collaboration with legal advisors.
- Maintain and develop accurate crofting and land databases and filing systems.
- Lead and coordinate meetings with crofters, stakeholders, and community representatives.
- Provide strategic advice into land use planning, development proposals, and environmental initiatives.
- Support the Gamekeeping and Sporting team with land-related administration and planning.
- Oversee the promotion and sale of estate products, including venison, ensuring compliance and stock control.
- Use financial systems (e.g. SAGE) for rent collection, credit control, and customer account management.
- Contribute to the development of the Company land management strategy and community engagement plans.

**Person Specification**

**Essential Skills and Attributes**
- Relevant qualificatiuon at SCQV level 8 to 9 (or equivalent), or Degree.
- Strong understanding of crofting law and land management in Scotland.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proven experience in land administration or estate management.
- High level of organisational and time management skills.
- High competence in MS Office and financial systems (e.g. SAGE).
- Proficiency in GIS Mapping software.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Commitment to the values and mission of community land ownership.

**Preferred Qualifications**
- Qualification in:

- Environmental or Agricultural Studies
- Law (with a focus on property or land law)
- Business Administration (with rural or land focus)
- Professional membership or accreditation with:

- Scottish Land & Estates
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- Institute of Agricultural Management
- Experience working with community-owned estates or rural development organisations.
- Knowledge of Gaelic or willingness to learn.
- Experience in stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution.
- Understanding of environmental stewardship and sustainable land use.

**Additional Information**

This is a key developmental role within the Community owned business, offering the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of community land management in the Outer Hebrides.

**Job Summary**

**Responsibilities**
- Conduct land surveys and assessments to gather data for planning and development projects.
- Utilise AutoCAD and CAD software to create detailed plans and designs for land use.
- Manage and analyse geographical data using ArcGIS to inform decision-making processes.
- Collaborate with Crofters, local authorities, community groups, and other stakeholders to facilitate effective land management.
- Prepare reports and documentation related to land use proposals, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant legislation.
- Monitor ongoing projects to ensure adherence to standards and environmental regulations.
- Provide guidance on best practices for crofting, sustainable land use, and development initiatives.

**Experience**
- Proven experience in land management, including familiarity with GIS mapping and techniques.
- Proficient in using AutoCAD/CAD, and/or ArcGIS software for design and data analysis.
- Strong background in data management, with the ability to organise and interpret complex datasets effectively.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, enabling effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. This role offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about land management and sustainability within the community.

Pay: £28,000.00-£35,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Canteen
- Company car
- Employee mentoring programme
- Free parking
- On-site parking

Work Location: In person