Associate Director – Economic Advisory in Birmingham

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

A Little More About Your Role… We are seeking to recruit an Associate Director, based in the UK, to join our Economic Advisory team. Our work is split between the UK and international markets. The team – led by Prof Jim Coleman – undertakes a wide variety of work to support clients in both the public and private sectors to develop place‑based or industry strategy, make informed policy decisions and secure investment for major urban projects. Our core work covers economic analysis and modelling, economic and industry strategy, economic master‑planning, economic appraisal and business case, as well as technical and commercial due diligence to support funding decisions.

Our UK work is influenced by some of the current Government’s main policy agendas, including the Growth Mission, National Industrial Strategy, Net Zero commitments, sub‑regional devolution and local government reorganisation. This is shaping the economic and technical analysis we apply to areas such as green economy transition, renewable energy, environmental strategy and appraisal, future mobility, digital technology, defence & security, sustainability and climate finance. Our recent international work has seen us advise on complex urban projects, economic strategy and major investment decisions across diverse regions, including the Middle East, the Nordics, south Asia and southern Africa.

Responsibilities

• Identifying issues and generating evidence relevant for sustainable and resilient economic development, target industry sectors and infrastructure investment proposals
• Analyzing economic, social, real estate, financial and spatial data
• Developing models to assess the economic and financial performance of places, industries or infrastructure assets
• Working on economic/industry strategies and regeneration programming
• Determining how places can develop pathways to Net Zero that stimulate sustainable economic growth
• Drafting business cases, due diligence assessments and client‑focused reporting
• Looking at ways to utilize AI and other technologies in our analysis and case‑making
• Creating economic and financial models to understand the viability of projects and investment propositions
• Aligning economic, sectoral and infrastructure planning with targeted social value outcomes
• Working with colleagues across the business in a range of disciplines including energy, digital technology, transport & mobility, environment & natural capital, defence & security, and structural engineering

Qualifications

• An extensive working foundation in economic advisory/consulting, economic development, real estate advisory or infrastructure appraisal
• Strong capabilities in project and team management, financial and operational management and supporting junior colleagues
• Track record in strategy development for high‑profile public and private sector clients in the UK and internationally. Significant previous experience with a recognised consulting organisation would be desirable
• Significant experience of quantitative economic modelling, economic appraisal and economic impact assessment, along with familiarity with design, development and use of financial or business case modelling techniques
• Exceptional understanding of, and good networks with, city administration and wider government clients in the UK and globally, as well as high‑profile international real estate developers
• Proven ability to manage project‑based consulting teams and address client needs effectively
• Demonstrate understanding of urban/city challenges and the value of providing an integrated offer including economics, planning and technical infrastructure expertise

Benefits

• Work‑life balance – Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
• Inclusivity & Belonging – WSP welcomes applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences, encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work.
• Health & Wellbeing – We offer the Thrive programme, a virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex scheme, and a comprehensive menopause support package.
• Flex your time – “WSP My Hour” allows you to take one hour each day for personal activities with flexibility for makeup. Part‑time and flexible working arrangements, option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
• Development – WSP fosters a supportive environment that invests in your growth through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

Equal Opportunity

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. Please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.