Graduate Host Cities Consultant in London

See it differently – You see the world through a unique lens and that’s exactly what we need. We embrace how you see things differently – it’s essential for creating a sustainable future. Arup is a global consultancy with advisory and technical expertise across more than 150 disciplines. We guide, plan and design the future of the built environment. Each year we recruit hundreds of graduates to help us solve the most complex challenges facing our clients, climate and communities.

In our Host Cities team we focus on helping cities consider, bid, plan and host major events around the world while delivering long‑term legacy benefits for citizens in line with the UN Sustainable Delivery Goals. Projects include Olympic, Pan American and Commonwealth Games, FIFA World Cups and other major events, as well as major national infrastructure and redevelopment projects under Government‑to‑Government agreements such as the Peru Reconstruction.

A significant part of the role is about bringing people together around shared aspirations and facilitating appropriate processes and narratives so that all stakeholders and interested parties can achieve their longer‑term ambitions through hosting major events.

The Opportunity

We have developed important collaborations with some of the leading thinkers, lobbyists and drivers of cities and major events, including:

• National and city governments and mayors
• Sporting federations and sporting bodies
• Major franchise and other interested bodies
• Property developers and regeneration companies
• Clients of major infrastructure projects such as rail, airports, highways and ports

As a graduate you will help our team deliver successful outcomes for our clients and other stakeholders. Your role will include:

• Undertaking research and analysis, producing reports, graphics and technical drawings at every stage of the planning and delivery of projects.
• Supporting the development of new ways of working to help clients embrace AI and digital planning.
• Collaborating with Urban Designers, Architects, Planners, Engineers and other professionals across Arup.
• Engaging with clients and stakeholders to interpret needs and develop strategic solutions.
• Applying total design as a holistic approach to problem solving and critical thinking.

Qualifications and Skills

• An undergraduate degree in Architecture, Urban Design, Planning, Business, Urban Studies or Geography.
• A post‑graduate degree and/or professional experience or placement in Architecture, Urban Design or Planning is desirable.
• Please note a technical design portfolio is required to apply.
• Interest in sport, though not essential, would be desirable.
• Excellent drawing and presentation skills, including 3D modelling and outstanding graphics.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign and Illustrator) and CAD software such as Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp is desirable.
• Interest or skills in project management are desirable.
• Ability to analyse data and maps, develop research methods and execute research projects.
• Ability to interpret the needs of clients and stakeholders, and take a strategic view on complex, multifaceted issues.
• Ability to apply total design as a holistic approach to work, problem solving and critical thinking, championing different skills, perspectives and values.
• Additional skills such as GIS, data management, statistical analysis, AI image generation, programming and other digital skills are beneficial but not required.
• Experience and/or good knowledge of sustainable development is desirable.

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Changemakers: A passion for sustainable development and creating a better world is key.
• Innovative minds: Critical thinkers who embrace new ideas and challenge the status quo.
• Growth seekers: A growth mindset, always eager to learn and explore new ways of working.
• Adaptable adventurers: Ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.

Start Date

You should be able to start this opportunity in September 2026.

Portfolio

In order for your application to be considered for this role, please upload evidence of technical, design or graphic work, for example your sample portfolio or website link. The document must be in PDF format and no larger than 20 MB. Use image compression and vector drawings where possible to keep the file size down without sacrificing quality.

Eligibility

We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Therefore, you must be eligible to work permanently in the UK without sponsorship.

What we offer you

Beyond a great salary and stimulating, technically challenging work, Arup offers a range of additional benefits. As a membership organisation, everyone shares in our success through a global profit share scheme. Members also have access to broader wellbeing benefits and a wealth of learning and development opportunities, including a structured induction and ongoing training through Arup University. You will have the opportunity to utilise your technical expertise to do meaningful work that strengthens the resilience of communities and places, improving lives through Arup's community engagement programme. Our hybrid work model creates an environment that accommodates different needs and allows members to integrate their work and personal lives alongside the needs of our business, clients and communities.