At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative projects in Local Government and shape impactful strategies.
- Company: Join a premium consultancy known for creativity and values-driven work.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, part-time roles, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values unique perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local communities while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in management consulting with deep Local Government expertise.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
Gate One is a business and digital transformation management consultancy working shoulder-to-shoulder with clients to design and deliver some of the world’s largest and most complex transformations that create meaningful change. We are a premium challenger consultancy - entrepreneurial, creative and values‑driven - and as part of the Havas network, we bring a unique blend of strategic consulting, transformation expertise and creative capability to solve our clients’ toughest challenges. Within Local Government, we partner with local authorities to help them deliver more with less, from targeted service improvements to full-scale operating model redesign.
As our team continues to grow, we are looking for an experienced Principal to help shape the direction of the practice, lead our most significant engagements, and further deepen our presence in the sector.
The opportunity:
- As a Principal at Gate One, you will play a central leadership role - shaping major programmes, building senior client relationships and steering our Local Government strategy.
- You will bring thought leadership and sector credibility, acting as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders across local authorities.
- Lead high‑value client engagements.
- Oversee large, complex Local Government projects, leading blended teams.
- Apply deep sector expertise to shape solutions, anticipate client needs and navigate the realities of local government environments.
- Act as a senior advisor to executive‑level stakeholders, bringing insight, challenge and clarity.
- Ensure high‑quality delivery and provide guidance, coaching and quality assurance to project teams.
- Drive business development and account growth.
- Shape and convert new opportunities, including leading major bids and senior‑level business development meetings.
- Build relationships across senior client stakeholder groups, expanding Gate One’s footprint and influence.
- Lead or co‑lead account strategies and sector development priorities.
- Build and scale the Local Government practice.
- Shape capability development, propositions, thought leadership and go‑to‑market strategies.
- Lead internal initiatives aligned to Gate One’s strategic priorities.
- Play a pivotal role in recruitment and in developing the next generation of consultants through people leadership, coaching and performance support.
About You:
We are looking for an experienced consultant who will bring maturity, credibility and a proven ability to advise senior leaders. Specifically, we are looking for someone with:
- 10+ years of management consulting experience, gained largely in reputable consulting or transformation environments, with experience of operating at Senior Manager grade or equivalent.
- Deep expertise in Local Government, with a strong track record of leading transformational engagements.
- Strong strategic and critical thinking skills, with the ability to simplify complexity and drive clarity.
- A proven track record of generating and converting business development opportunities.
- Experience leading, coaching and inspiring consultants, modelling inclusive and empowering leadership.
- A values‑led approach aligned to Gate One’s culture of empathy, grit, candour, humility, entrepreneurship and aspiration.
This role is based in our London office and candidates must have the full, unrestricted right to work in the UK. We offer flexible working and part‑time roles. Around 17% of our Principals currently work on part‑time contracts.
Gate One are committed to an inclusive hiring process. All applications will be given fair consideration regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, disability, age, faith, or social background. We welcome individuals from all educational backgrounds to apply. We encourage applications from underrepresented and minority groups and can provide reasonable adjustments where needed to ensure a fair and accessible process. Our goal is to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace that values the unique perspectives and contributions of each team member.
Candidates must hold the legal Right to Work in the UK and meet the level of experience outlined above to be considered for this role.
Principal - Local Government, London employer: Gate One
Gate One is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As a Principal in our London office, you will have the opportunity to lead transformative projects within Local Government, while benefiting from flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity. Join us to make a meaningful impact and shape the future of public services alongside a talented team that values creativity, empathy, and entrepreneurial spirit.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal - Local Government, London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the Local Government sector. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Gate One. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your deep knowledge of Local Government transformations. Share specific examples of how you've led successful projects and the impact they had.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research Gate One’s recent projects and their approach to Local Government challenges. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and how you can contribute to their mission of delivering meaningful change.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining Gate One and being part of our exciting journey in transforming Local Government.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal - Local Government, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal role. Highlight your experience in local government and transformational projects, showing how you can bring value to Gate One.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your ability to lead and inspire teams. Share specific examples of how you've coached others and driven successful outcomes in previous roles.
Demonstrate Strategic Thinking:Use your application to illustrate your strategic and critical thinking skills. Provide examples of how you've simplified complex challenges and delivered clarity in past projects.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gate One
✨Know Your Local Government Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the current challenges and trends within local government. Familiarise yourself with recent case studies or transformations that have taken place. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Principal, you'll be expected to lead teams and engage with senior stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past. Highlight your coaching and mentoring experiences, as well as how you foster an inclusive environment.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
Expect questions around generating and converting business opportunities. Think of specific instances where you've successfully identified and pursued new business leads. Be ready to discuss your approach to building relationships with senior client stakeholders.
✨Align with Gate One’s Values
Familiarise yourself with Gate One's culture and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around empathy, grit, and entrepreneurship. This alignment can set you apart as a candidate who truly fits within their team.