Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead economic research projects and develop evidence-based strategies for impactful outcomes.
- Company: Urban Foresight, a forward-thinking consultancy dedicated to improving futures for communities.
- Benefits: Permanent role with opportunities for professional growth and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in economic development while mentoring the next generation of consultants.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in economic research and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovative solutions and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Urban Foresight is a forward-thinking consultancy focused on creating better futures for places, people and public services. We are looking for an experienced consultant to join our Economic Development group. You will lead and grow a portfolio that turns research into evidence-based strategy, options appraisal, business cases and clear recommendations to improve outcomes. This permanent role will be based in one of our offices (Dundee or Newcastle) in line with your preferences.
What you’ll do
- Work closely with the Head of Economic Development to shape and deliver a portfolio growth plan, aligned to the Economic Development group strategy.
- Win work through client development, partnerships, proactive outreach, and compelling proposals.
- Direct and deliver research, evaluation and economic analysis; develop Green Book Five Case Model business cases and Magenta Book-aligned evaluations.
- Be responsible for the financial performance of your portfolio, including budgeting, pricing, margins, invoicing, and cost control.
- Plan resources and manage delivery across multiple projects, including contract and client management.
- Mentor and develop more junior consultants.
About you
The ideal candidate would have:
- Senior experience leading multi-project consultancy in economic research, evaluation, analysis, and economic development.
- Strong mixed-methods practice and proportionate evaluation design (Theory of Change, logic models, process and impact, value for money), applying Magenta Book principles.
- Green Book expertise, including options appraisal, cost–benefit analysis and Five Case Model business cases.
- Proven business development track record, including competitively awarded public sector contracts, with a good network across the public and private sector.
- Excellent writing and communication, and confident stakeholder engagement.
- Understanding of local/ regional government in the UK and the associated policy and funding frameworks.
Desirable experience would be:
- Comfortable undertaking and reviewing advanced analysis, such as econometrics or statistical modelling, data visualisation and business intelligence.
- Working knowledge of relevant UK datasets (e.g., ONS/NOMIS, IMD, DfT, Companies House, UKRI/DSIT) and how to brief and quality-assure analytical work.
- Experience with theory-based and participatory approaches (e.g., contribution analysis, realist, systems mapping).
How to apply
Send your CV and covering letter to people@urbanforesight.com by 10th February 2026. Please include your salary expectations and notice period. Urban Foresight is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons.
Principal Consultant: Economic Research and Analysis in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Urban Foresight
Contact Detail:
Urban Foresight Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Consultant: Economic Research and Analysis in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the economic research field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to referrals or insider info about openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in economic analysis and consultancy. When you meet potential employers, having tangible examples of your success will make you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like Green Book principles and economic development strategies.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals like you. Keep an eye on our job postings and make sure to submit your application directly for the best chance at landing that dream role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant: Economic Research and Analysis in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Principal Consultant. Highlight your experience in economic research and analysis, and don’t forget to showcase your business development successes. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects or experiences that align with our needs at Urban Foresight. We love a good story that shows your passion for economic development.
Showcase Your Skills: Be sure to highlight your mixed-methods practice and any experience with the Green Book and Magenta Book principles. We’re looking for someone who can lead and deliver, so make those skills pop in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications better and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Urban Foresight
✨Know Your Economic Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in economic research and analysis. Familiarise yourself with the Green Book and Magenta Book principles, as well as any recent case studies that showcase your expertise. This will help you speak confidently about how you can apply these frameworks in your role.
✨Showcase Your Business Development Skills
Prepare examples of your past successes in winning contracts and developing client relationships. Urban Foresight is looking for someone with a proven track record, so be ready to discuss specific strategies you used to secure public sector contracts and how you built your network.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentoring Experience
As a Principal Consultant, you'll be expected to mentor junior consultants. Think of instances where you've led teams or guided others in their professional development. Share these experiences during the interview to highlight your leadership style and commitment to team growth.
✨Engage with Stakeholders Effectively
Communication is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully engaged with various stakeholders in the past. Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, ensuring you convey your ability to build relationships and communicate complex ideas clearly.
