Head of Research, Evaluation and Insight

Location: Newcastle, Dundee, or Edinburgh

Urban Foresight is a forward-thinking consultancy dedicated to creating better futures for places, people and public services. We are seeking an experienced and ambitious consultant to develop an important area in our growing business.

You will lead a consultancy portfolio that uses mixed-methods research and evaluation to generate strategies, options and learning to improve programmes and policy outcomes.

You should apply if you are:

• excited to be involved in cutting-edge projects that make a genuine difference in the world
• motivated to take a leading role in a growing business
• enjoy sharing your knowledge and working with passionate people

The Role

You will lead a talented multi-disciplinary team that turns research and evaluation into feasible options, clear strategies and practical advice. The work ranges from feasibility and market studies to programme evaluations and learning support, often on complex, high-profile programmes. Current focus areas include innovation and industry, skills and employment, regeneration and place, health and social care, and the connected systems of transport, energy and net zero.

As part of this role, you will:

• Set strategy and lead growth of your group’s portfolio.
• Win work through client development, partnerships, proactive outreach, and compelling proposals.
• Be responsible for the financial performance of your group, including budgeting, pricing, margins, invoicing, and cost control.
• Plan and manage resources through capacity planning, allocation and scheduling, subcontractor management, and timely hiring to meet demand.
• Ensure excellence in delivery across the portfolio, taking a hands-on role in the development of high-quality reports, presentations and proposals.
• Manage assurance and risk across all work by setting scope, methods, timelines, commercial terms, and contractual requirements.
• Develop people and capability, including appraisal, performance, development, morale and motivation of staff.
• Be visible to prospective clients and partners by publishing thought leadership, presenting at events, engaging with relevant networks, and proactive outreach.
• Represent our values as an influential and positive member of Urban Foresight’s senior leadership team.

Skills and experience

The ideal candidate would have:

• advanced degree in a relevant subject
• 10+ years of relevant sector experience
• an impressive track record of successful business development and generating sustainable revenue streams, including competitively awarded public sector contracts
• extensive experience as a project director and senior project manager
• experience of leading consultancy teams to win and deliver a portfolio of multiple parallel projects
• experience of managing resources, budgets, and contracts
• strong mixed-methods practice and proportionate evaluation design (e.g., Theory of Change, logic models, process, outcome and impact, VfM), applying Magenta Book principles and drawing on the Green Book where required
• proven leadership and people management skills
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• an established network of clients to support your revenue generation efforts.

About Urban Foresight

Urban Foresight is a purpose-driven business that works with ambitious clients around the world on projects to improve lives, protect the environment, and create new economic opportunities.

Our success is based on a multi-disciplinary team with shared values and diverse expertise across a range of sectors. We think deeply about how to turn good ideas into great projects that can have a lasting and transformational impact.

We have built a strong track-record in a range of sectors and are proud to have a talented and growing team.

The ideal candidate will be excited about what we do and keen to contribute to our mission to achieve better outcomes for places, people, and public services.

How to apply

Applications should be made in the form of a full CV and covering letter sent to: people@urbanforesight.com by 7th November 2025.

Please indicate in your covering letter your salary expectations and notice period.

Urban Foresight strives to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons.

How we assess applicants The information contained in this job description is for guidance only and does not form part of a contract.