How Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Develop Industry Leaders.
We look at how one company are developing staff from Arborist's to Technical Leader's
Across the UK, the arboricultural industry is facing a challenge we can’t ignore: a growing demand for skilled professional arborists to lead the next generation.
At Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd, they have pioneered an in house solution to the problem. Rather than waiting for the industry to change, they are investing in their people by building a structured pathway to develop climbers into confident, capable leaders.
Growing Talent from Within
Every great arborist starts somewhere, and with the right mentoring and support, Director Simon Rotherham believes anyone can grow into a leadership role. Their in-house training programme combines technical excellence, personal development, and professional leadership, helping team members develop both the skills and confidence to lead a team both safely and efficiently with pride in their work.
Their structured five-stage progression framework sets out clear milestones and salary reviews at each step and surely sets a route for other UK companies to follow:
Stage | Role | Typical Salary Range |
Stage 1 – Climber (Core Technician) | Arborists build core climbing skills, get trained in tool care, and build increased site safety awareness. | £28,000 – £30,000 |
Stage 2 – Lead Climber | As a lead climbers, you take on responsibility for tool and equipment maintenance and mentor junior climbers. | £30,000 – £32,000 |
Stage 3 – Trainee Team Leader | Assist with shadow planning, lead safety briefings and begin leadership training. | £32,000 – £35,000 |
Stage 4 – Team Leader | Full crew leaders take on full site responsibility, develop client liaison skills and get to manage operational delivery of arboricultural services. | £35,000 – £38,000 |
Stage 5 – Senior Arborist (Master Technician) | Mentors the team's. Plans and leads the more complex jobs, supports operations and company audits. | £38,000 – £43,000 |
In this way each stage, is structured, recognised, and rewarded, with salary reviews, development milestones, and completion bonuses to celebrate achievement.
Training Beyond the Chainsaw
At Beechwood they understand leadership isn’t about the team bully or what a brilliant climber you think you are, it’s about how well you communicate, manage people, and represent the company.
Their development pathway includes essential leadership elements like:
- Leadership & People Management – Running briefings, handling performance and conflict resolution.
- Communication & Professionalism – Delivering toolbox talks, client updates, and team support.
- Resilience & Maturity – Building adaptability and confidence in challenging environments.
- Business Awareness – Understanding cost control, customer service, and contract management.
Within the company, arborists are provided exposure to a wide variety of sectors, from utilities and highways to housing, commercial, and environmental projects, ensuring everyone gains a broad, practical experience.
Recognition, Reward, and Retention
With many larger companies struggling to retain staff it's good to see how Beechwood understand the importance of feeling valued. Beechwood’s pathway includes:
- Clear salary progression linked to development
- Retention and completion bonuses
- Tool and equipment allowances
- Recognition awards for safety, teamwork, and client satisfaction
- Public celebration of promotions across internal and social media
By embedding this framework, they not only building stronger teams, they also raise standards across the industry.
Why Leadership Matters
The arboricultural sector desperately needs more than "good climbers". It needs leaders who can:
✅ Run safe, efficient, and compliant sites
✅ Mentor and guide developing arborists
✅ Communicate clearly with clients and colleagues
✅ Set new benchmarks for quality and professionalism
Team Leader Development Pathway's like th eone at Beechwood exist to make that happen. It’s about giving ambitious arborists the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to lead, and thrive.
Join the Future of Arboriculture
If you’re a skilled arborist ready to take on more responsibility, companies like Beechwood Trees offer a clear path to professional growth and leadership.
Where they are not just filling roles they are developing the future leaders of our industry.
👉 If you are inspired by their investment in development why not have a look at their current opportunities: Jobs With Beechwood Trees and Landscapes