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 system change for a sustainable future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a diverse environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the transition to a net-zero economy while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in strategy consulting or analytical roles; strong problem-solving and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 57692 - 70512 £ 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.
Senior Associate - Materials in London employer: Systemiq
At Systemiq, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer committed to sustainability and innovation. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and inclusivity, providing employees with ample opportunities for professional growth and development in the heart of London. Join us to make a meaningful impact on food systems and biodiversity while enjoying the benefits of a supportive team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Associate - Materials in London
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Senior Associate - Materials at Systemiq!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Systemiq or be willing to refer you for that Senior Associate - Materials position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Systemiq who’s on the lookout for their next Senior Associate - Materials star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Senior Associate - Materials role at Systemiq!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Associate - Materials in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Systemiq. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Systemiq
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Systemiq. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
