At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive impactful projects in sustainability and circular economy with a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Systemiq, a certified B Corp focused on transforming economies for a sustainable future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a diverse environment with global impact and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the world by tackling complex sustainability challenges.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in strategy consulting or analytical roles; strong problem-solving and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Systemiq is the system change company, working to accelerate the transition to a net-zero, nature-positive and more inclusive economy. As a certified B Corp, we partner with business, finance, policymakers and civil society to transform five interconnected systems: energy, nature and food, materials and circularity, sustainable finance, and urban transformation. We bring together strategy, policy, market design and capital mobilisation to deliver tangible results in the real economy. Founded in 2016, Systemiq has grown to a global team of more than 300 people across Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Kenya, the Netherlands, the UK and the US, united by a singular focus on sustainability.
As a Strategy Associate, you will play a key role in delivering high-impact advisory work within the Materials and Circular Economy platform. This is a client-facing role requiring strong structured problem-solving, analytical thinking, and the ability to translate complex topics into clear, actionable recommendations. You will work as part of small, fast-paced project teams supporting corporate and public sector clients on strategic questions related to circularity and sustainability. This includes framing problems, analysing data, developing insights, and contributing to client-ready outputs. We are looking for someone who either brings experience from a strategy consulting or advisory environment, or who can quickly operate at that level—demonstrating strong analytical rigour, clear communication, and comfort working in ambiguity.
Responsibilities:
- Structure complex, ambiguous problems into clear workstreams and key questions
- Conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative analysis to generate insights
- Translate analysis into clear, concise, and compelling recommendations (often in slide format)
- Support the development of client deliverables and presentations
- Work directly with clients and partners across private sector, government, and NGOs
- Contribute to shaping project approaches, hypotheses, and strategic direction
- Build strong, trust-based relationships with stakeholders across multi-partner initiatives
Leadership: You will be part of the Materials & Circular Economy team, led by Partner Ben Dixon. Ben works across the circular economy and energy platforms and has collaborated with clients like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the United Nations International Resource Panel, and large multinational companies in the packaging and chemicals industries. He also manages SYSTEMIQ’s work on plastics, contributing to a circular, less wasteful plastic packaging industry.
Requirements
Strategy & Analytical Capability
- Strong structured problem-solving skills (ability to break down complex, ambiguous problems into clear components and hypotheses)
- Experience contributing to strategy, advisory, or decision-focused work
- Ability to synthesise complex information into clear, concise insights and actionable recommendations
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including developing clear, client-ready materials (e.g. slides, briefings)
- Comfort working in fast-paced environments with ambiguity and evolving priorities
Experience & Background
- 2+ years of experience in strategy consulting, advisory, or similarly analytical and fast-paced environments
- We also welcome candidates from start-ups, in-house strategy, investment, or project-based roles who can demonstrate equivalent analytical rigour and structured thinking
- Master’s degree or equivalent academic achievement
- Strong track record of professional and/or academic excellence
Sector & Content Awareness
- Understanding of key concepts and value chains across one or more relevant sectors (e.g. plastics, petrochemicals, energy, mobility, consumer goods, manufacturing, waste management, etc.)
- Interest in sustainability, circular economy, and system change
Amsterdam can also work for this role for the right candidate and experience background.
Diversity & Inclusion At Systemiq, we absolutely believe diverse perspectives are essential to driving system change. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people feel respected, supported and able to do their best work.
Associate- Materials & Circular Focus in London employer: Systemiq
At Systemiq, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the sustainability sector, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our London office is a hub for passionate individuals dedicated to driving meaningful change, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development through engaging projects and partnerships with influential organisations. As a certified B Corp, we prioritise diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our mission of creating a net-zero, nature-positive economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate- Materials & Circular Focus in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Systemiq. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the circular economy and sustainability topics. Show us you’re not just interested but passionate about making a difference in these areas!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills with real-world scenarios. We love candidates who can break down complex issues and present clear solutions, so get comfortable with that!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate- Materials & Circular Focus in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate role. Highlight your experience in strategy consulting or analytical environments, and show how your skills align with our focus on sustainability and circular economy.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:We love candidates who can break down complex problems! Use your application to demonstrate your structured problem-solving abilities and any relevant projects where you've turned data into actionable insights.
Communicate Clearly:Your written communication is key! Ensure your application materials are clear, concise, and free of jargon. We want to see how you can translate complex topics into straightforward recommendations, just like you would in a client-facing role.
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Systemiq!
How to prepare for a job interview at Systemiq
✨Know Your Circular Economy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key concepts and value chains related to materials and circularity. Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in sustainability, especially in sectors like plastics and waste management. This will help you speak confidently about how your skills align with Systemiq's mission.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your structured problem-solving abilities. Think of examples from your past experiences where you broke down complex issues into manageable parts. Be ready to discuss how you approached these problems and what insights you derived from your analyses.
✨Communicate Clearly and Concisely
Practice translating complex information into clear, actionable recommendations. You might be asked to present your thoughts in a slide format, so consider creating a few mock presentations. This will not only help you refine your communication skills but also show your potential to create client-ready materials.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, this role involves working closely with clients and stakeholders. During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their work and express genuine interest in their projects. This will showcase your ability to foster strong, trust-based relationships.
