Principal Consultant / Associate Director - Socio-Economics & Economic Development. London, Bri[...]

JS Money Limited; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent environmental consultancy in Bristol is seeking a Principal Consultant / Associate Director to lead socio-economic assessments and provide strategic advice on economic development. The ideal candidate will have proven expertise in socio-economics and a degree in economics or related fields. This role offers a competitive salary, flexible working, and a culture of support and innovation.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Enhanced pension

Private medical cover

Generous annual leave

Flexible working

Wellbeing programmes

CPD and training opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in socio-economics, regional development, and human population/community assessments.
• Strong confidence with labour market and demographic data.
• Collaborative leader with a talent for nurturing others.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver socio-economic and community assessments.
• Provide strategic advice on economic development and policy.
• Mentor and manage junior team members.

Skills

Socio-economics expertise

Analytical skills

Report writing

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Degree in economics, geography, or social sciences

Postgraduate qualification (ideally)

Tools

HM Treasury Green Book

Job description

Join a growing consultancy making a difference. Key opportunity for a Principal Consultant / Associate Director with proven expertise in Socio-Economics & Economic Development

My client is a leading independent environmental consultancy with deep expertise across environmental policy, economics, climate change, ecology, natural capital, flood risk, air and noise quality, and more. With a strong culture built on integrity, collaboration, and delivering meaningful, high-quality work, they are now looking for an experienced Socio-Economics & Economic Development specialist to take a pivotal leadership role in their growing team.

This is an outstanding opportunity to lead impactful work across the UK and internationally, supporting clients in both public and private sectors. The role sits at the intersection of environmental assessment, regional economic development, and socio-economic policy – and offers significant scope for innovation and influence in a supportive, entrepreneurial environment.

About the Role

As Principal Consultant or Associate Director, you’ll:

• Lead and deliver socio-economic and community assessments, including in the context of EIA and infrastructure planning.
• Provide strategic advice on economic development, policy, and regional growth.
• Work horizontally across teams including natural capital, environmental policy, and economics specialists.
• Support junior team members through mentoring and line management.
• Help shape the team’s direction, client offer, and future growth.
• A Technical Director appointment may be considered for exceptional candidates.

We’re Looking For:

• A degree (and ideally a postgrad) in economics, geography, or social sciences.
• Proven experience in socio-economics, regional development, and human population/community assessments.
• Understanding of key guidance and tools, such as the HM Treasury Green Book.
• Strong analytical skills and confidence with labour market and demographic data.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• A collaborative leader who can nurture talent and drive innovation.

Bonus if you also have:

• Experience of Health Impact Assessments or public examinations (EIPs)
• International consultancy experience
• A track record in business development or bid writing

What’s on Offer

You’ll join a dynamic, values-driven consultancy at an exciting stage of growth. In return for your expertise, you’ll enjoy:

• A competitive salary and progression opportunities
• Enhanced pension and private medical cover
• Generous and growing annual leave allowance
• Flexible working, mental health support and wellbeing programmes
• CPD, training, and career development opportunities
• A positive, inclusive company culture

Interested?

If this sounds like the next step in your career, get in touch today for a confidential chat or apply directly.

Apply now or reach out to learn more about this exciting opportunity.