Job Description
Socio-Economics and Economic Development ConsultantLocation: London, Brighton, Bristol or Warrington (hybrid working available)Salary: London-based: £55,000 to £58,000 | Outside London: £50,000 to £53,000Contract: Permanent opportunityWe are working in partnership with an independent environmental organisation recognised for its meaningful and technically robust work across socio-economics, economic development, environmental assessment, and policy. The organisation plays a vital role in helping public and private sector clients understand and respond to the social and economic impacts of major projects and strategies—both in the UK and internationally. With a collaborative, values-driven culture and a reputation for high-quality, award-winning work, the business continues to grow and expand its influence across a wide range of sectors.As part of this growth, they are seeking an experienced Consultant to lead and further develop their socio-economics and economic development offering. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with strong technical expertise and a strategic mindset to step into a visible leadership role. You’ll work across a diverse portfolio of projects, support junior colleagues, and play an important part in shaping the direction of a specialist team.The RoleYou will be responsible for delivering socio-economic assessments, supporting strategic development planning, and contributing to evidence-based policy work. Projects span both public and private sectors—including planning applications, regeneration schemes, levelling-up initiatives, and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)—with a strong focus on long-term sustainability and social value.Working alongside experts in environmental policy, economics, and natural capital, you will:
* Lead socio-economic assessments, including within the EIA process
* Conduct social infrastructure and open space assessments
* Provide advice on subnational economic development and regional policy
* Work closely with local authorities, developers, and other public sector stakeholders
* Contribute to bids and business development initiatives
About YouTo succeed in this role, you will bring a solid background in economic development and socio-economic analysis, ideally gained within consultancy, government, academia, or a relevant public policy environment.You will have:
* A degree in economics, geography, town planning, or a related social science
* Demonstrated experience in socio-economic and economic development analysis
* Experience preparing assessments within the EIA process
* A good understanding of UK socio-economic data sources and policy frameworks
* Familiarity with HM Treasury Green Book and other government guidance
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Experience mentoring or managing junior colleagues
* Experience presenting at Examinations in Public (EIPs)
* International project experience
* Involvement in competitive tendering and client engagement
* Experience in Health Impact Assessment (HIA), especially within EIA or DCO contexts
Ideal backgrounds include:Town Planning, Economic Development, Urban Studies, Public Policy, or consultancy roles at organisations - experience engineering, advisory and science-based expertiseWhat’s on OfferYou’ll be joining an organisation that actively supports both professional development and employee wellbeing. In addition to a competitive salary, benefits include:
* Enhanced pension contributions
* Private medical insurance
* Generous annual leave (with the option to purchase more)
* Flexible and hybrid working options
* Life assurance
* Season ticket and cycle-to-work schemes
* Structured CPD and training programme
* Employee recognition awards and mental health support
The company fosters a collaborative, inclusive culture, built around shared values of professionalism, integrity, and community. If you're seeking a new challenge and want to make a real impact in a forward-thinking and growing consultancy, we’d love to hear from you.