Associate or AD - Planning Analytics & Research

The Organisation

Cobalt is working with an established independent planning consultancy to appoint an Associate / Associate Director into its specialist analytics and research team.

The team has grown quickly since launching in 2023 and now works with more than 100 local authorities across the UK and Ireland, alongside property developers, cultural institutions and other private-sector clients. Its work combines planning expertise with demographic, economic, socioeconomic, health and spatial analysis.

This is a newly created position within a growing consultancy, offering the opportunity to influence both the direction of the team and the services it provides.

• A discretionary bonus and generous annual leave.
• Hybrid working, balancing office and remote working.
• Private medical insurance, a Health Cash Plan and colleague assistance service.
• Employer-supported pension provision.
• Professional membership fees, CPD, learning support and coaching.
• Group Income Protection and Life Assurance.
• Family-focused policies.
• The opportunity to participate in share ownership.

Working alongside the Executive Director, the Associate / Associate Director will become a senior member of a small specialist team of two.

This is broader than a conventional analytics position. You will combine technical consultancy and project leadership with responsibility for helping develop the team, win work and shape its longer-term strategy.

The Associate / Associate Director will:

• Help shape the strategy and future direction of the analytics and research offering.
• Lead demographic, economic, socioeconomic, health, needs assessment and GIS-related projects.
• Broaden the services available to existing and prospective clients.
• Develop technical capability and strengthen quality control across the team.
• Manage projects and maintain strong relationships with clients.
• Support and develop colleagues within the team.
• Identify opportunities for new work and contribute to business development and growth.
• Bring new ideas to how the consultancy develops its services and technical capability.

The position offers considerable scope to influence how the team develops rather than simply inherit an established remit.

We are looking for someone operating at Associate or Associate Director level who can combine analytical knowledge with commercial and people-focused responsibilities.

You will need:

• Detailed working knowledge of analytics and research within a planning environment.
• Working knowledge of delivering analytical projects across areas such as demographics, economics, socioeconomic analysis, health, needs assessments or GIS.
• The ability to manage a varied portfolio of consultancy projects.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisation and project management skills.
• The ability to establish and maintain client relationships.
• An interest in business development and growing consultancy services.
• The ability to support colleagues while working collaboratively within a small team.

This Associate / Associate Director opportunity would suit someone who wants to retain a strong connection to technical consultancy while taking greater responsibility for clients, people and growth.

The client is prepared to consider candidates at a scope and package reflecting the successful candidate's level. The focus is on finding the right person rather than filling the position quickly.

Location: London, with hybrid working.

Interviews will take place as suitable applications are received.

Due to the volume of applications received, if you don't hear back from us, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

If you require any adjustments or additional support during the recruitment process for any reason whatsoever, please let your Cobalt consultant know.