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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 development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by shaping economic strategies that benefit people and places.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in economic research and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and mentor junior consultants while managing diverse projects.
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 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or clients. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in economic research and analysis. Use it as a conversation starter during interviews or networking events. It’s a great way to demonstrate your skills and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their approach to economic development and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are excited about joining us. Plus, it gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the role and the company right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant: Economic Research and Analysis
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 Communication Skills: Since excellent writing and communication are key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Keep your language clear and concise, and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the point!
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 any important details. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and submit your CV and cover letter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Urban Foresight
✨Know Your Economic Frameworks
Make sure you brush up on the Green Book and Magenta Book principles. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these frameworks in your previous roles, especially in options appraisal and cost-benefit analysis.
✨Showcase Your Business Development Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully won public sector contracts or developed client relationships. Urban Foresight values a strong business development track record, so highlight your networking skills and any compelling proposals you've crafted.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Prowess
Be ready to talk about how you've managed multiple projects simultaneously. Discuss your approach to budgeting, resource planning, and client management, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders Confidently
Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Urban Foresight looks for excellent communication skills, so think about how you can effectively engage with various stakeholders during the interview.
