25 Aug 2025
At Naturally Compliant, we know that the strength of our work lies in the people who deliver it. Finding the right talent – individuals who share our values and are motivated to make a real difference – is central to our success. That’s why we’ve partnered with CleanTech Talent, specialists in connecting environmental professionals with organisations committed to driving change.
We spoke with Jim Merryfield, Partner at CleanTech Talent, to discuss why our collaboration works so well, what candidates value most about Naturally Compliant, and how the environmental jobs market is evolving.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, CleanTech Talent’s partnership with Naturally Compliant, and why the collaboration works so well?
As a Partner & Lead Consultant at CleanTech Talent, we provide tailored hiring solutions for teams driving positive environmental change and supporting the journey to Net Zero. With 10 years in recruitment and talent across multiple organisations, I’m selective about who we work with. Naturally Compliant, a small business like ours with solid foundations and clear plans, stood out as the perfect blend of passion, people, and professionalism. You can’t beat down-to-earth, talented people with an adaptable approach – which is why we work so well together.
Naturally Compliant has carved out a reputation for helping major construction and infrastructure projects deliver on environmental outcomes. From a hiring perspective, what makes the company stand out to candidates?
They offer all the benefits of a large company – training, delivery, pay, exciting projects – without compromising on quality or the ability to work as a tight-knit team. What appeals most to jobseekers is their genuine care for the work and deep understanding of its importance. Their broad, non-tunnelled approach to projects, the industry, and their teammates is refreshing. And the cherry on top: they’re one of the few businesses in the sector offering an uncapped performance bonus.
When you’re recruiting for Naturally Compliant, what skills, experiences, or personal qualities are most valued?
It’s a unique blend – and definitely not a desk-based role. Experience in construction-phase environmental services, a desire to drive sector-wide change, and the ability to be adaptable, solve real problems, and engage with multiple stakeholders daily are key. It’s the perfect environment for competent and confident consultants.
The company highlights proactivity, integrity, trustworthiness, and continuous learning as core to its culture. How do these values come across in your recruitment conversations with candidates?
Value alignment is crucial when building the foundations of a growing organisation, and Naturally Compliant absolutely nails it. Across every major issue, there’s often too much talk and not enough action. With Naturally Compliant, there’s no head-in-the-sand mentality, no empty yeses – they consult on behalf of the environment in a truly integral sector. Most people enter the environmental field to protect the planet. Simon and the Naturally Compliant team provide the tools and space to do exactly that.
From your perspective, what current trends are shaping the environmental jobs market in the UK?
There’s a continued rise in consenting and environmental delivery roles across civil and environmental firms. These areas have been major delivery bottlenecks, alongside supply chain challenges. CleanTech Talent is also seeing increased demand for engineering roles, with the goal of doubling renewable energy infrastructure by 2030. Preparing the renewables workforce requires serious cross-sector transition – something we’re discussing almost daily. Building a more diverse workforce remains essential. Prioritising personality, drive, and soft skills over rigid technical requirements must be front and centre.
With Naturally Compliant working on major linear infrastructure projects in energy transition and development – supporting ecological and environmental performance at the construction phase – where do you see the biggest talent opportunities and challenges in the next few years?
The challenge will always be competing with large consulting firms, who hoard resources and present a polished image. But that’s also Naturally Compliant’s opportunity – they offer something deeper than bells and whistles, and the right people are starting to notice. I’m regularly approached by individuals from big firms who feel they’re treated as utilisation drivers rather than people. The biggest growth areas will be in onsite environmental delivery, assurance and ecology experience.
Finally, what advice would you give to early-career professionals who want to build a future in environmental management and compliance, and perhaps work with companies like Naturally Compliant?
Keep using your university’s job resources – even after graduating. A conversation I had at All-Energy with L&D at Aberdeen University was incredibly encouraging, so I’m shouting this loud and clear. CleanTech is offering free CV reviews and interview training for early-career professionals.
Treat your job search like a project: track conversations, companies, people, and upcoming projects. If you don’t hear back – follow up. And follow up again. It’s competitive, so be proactive in your chosen sector:
What professional bodies can you join? (for example CIEEM, ISEP, CIWEM or AEnvCoW)
What local volunteer surveys can you attend?
Does your CV answer key questions – driving licence, relocation, travel, achievements, volunteering?
Does your CV or application show who you are as a person, not just a professional?
Our partnership with CleanTech Talent reflects more than recruitment – it’s about building a workforce that is proactive, values-driven, and ready to protect the environment where it matters most: on the ground.
As Jim notes, the sector is competitive, but Naturally Compliant offers something different – a culture of integrity, collaboration, and real-world impact. For early-career professionals and experienced consultants alike, we’re proud to provide opportunities where skills, passion, and purpose come together to deliver lasting positive environmental outcomes.