We are looking for a Consultant and/or Researcher to join our growing environmental policy team. The role will sit in ICF’s European Policy, Research, Evaluation and Strategy unit.

ICF provides independent policy research, evaluation and analytical support to the Defra group and other UK public sector clients. We provide robust evidence and strategic support to policy-makers and regulators, using the latest research and evaluation methodologies, advanced data science and behavioural insights. We work on issues at the top of today’s policy agenda, including:

• Restoring biodiversity and natural capital
• Rural economy and agriculture
• Sustainable food production and agri-food chain
• Addressing climate change and net zero
• Fresh water governance and policy
• Blue economy, marine planning and biodiversity
• Sustainable fisheries

Examples of our current work include:

• Evidencing the impact, and providing recommendations to improve, major funding programmes addressing biodiversity loss and climate change, from nature-based solution to agricultural innovation.
• Supporting the implementation of key legislation such as the UK Agriculture Act and UK Fisheries Act, by providing social and economic research, behaviour change analysis, and monitoring and evaluation for key new policies such as Environmental Land Management Schemes and Fisheries Management Plans.
• Providing research, evaluation and strategy consulting services to build understanding and recommendations on issues of environmental and institutional governance and regulation.

From day one, you will contribute to a diverse range of assignments by undertaking qualitative and quantitative research and analysis that impacts directly on public policy decisions. In parallel, we will provide you with the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills further through training and development support, structured career guidance systems, our mentoring programme, communities of practice and line management arrangements.

Your main responsibilities will be:

• Undertake research and analysis
• Engage with stakeholders through the delivery of primary research
• Support managers through the coordination of projects and research tasks
• Help us to win new work by contributing to compelling research proposals

Who we are looking for

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience:

• Demonstrable interest and experience in a relevant policy area
• Degree, Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant discipline
• Skills in policy analysis, social and economic research, environmental economics, and/or data science
• Strong qualitative, quantitative and analytical skills
• Exceptional ability to write and communicate in English
• Strong organisational and collaborative working skills
• Highly-developed interpersonal skills and self-motivation

This is an entry-level role for researchers who are new to the profession. Prior experience in a consulting environment would be an advantage but we also welcome applicants with backgrounds in academia, government and non-governmental employment.

Interested candidates are invited to demonstrate their skills, experience and interests by submitting a one-page cover letter and a two-page CV.

About us

Working at ICF means applying a passion for meaningful work with intellectual rigor to help solve the leading issues of our day. We are a purpose driven company with a strong culture and underlying values that prize collaboration, diversity, mutual respect, innovation, open communication, and opportunity for growth. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals.

Learn more about what we do and our commitment to inclusion. ICF is a privacy conscious organisation and your trust is paramount to us. Find out how we use and protect your data.

Benefits of joining ICF

Our people at ICF are our most important asset, so we invest in them from the moment they arrive. When you join our team, you’ll have access to a vast array of benefits to help you live your life well.

We offer a hybrid working policy, which will provide you with the flexibility to collaborate in the office, as well as in the comfort of your own home, ensuring you are able to successfully deliver the requirements of your role.

To support you, our employee wellbeing hub is designed to provide highly personalised support across a comprehensive range of wellbeing issues, such as mind, body, finances, community, career programs and HR support.

• 25 days annual leave, plus UK bank holidays (annual leave increases with years of service)
• Pension scheme with 5% of salary employer contribution
• Life assurance paying 4x annual salary and Group Income Protection paying 66% of salary for up to 5 years if you are off work on long-term sick
• Enhanced parental leave policies, enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental pay

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair and equitable interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews is not permitted. If an accommodation involving AI is needed, candidates should contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com.

London