Sustainability Consultant | UK Planning System Focus - #1781349

The Opportunity

With sustainability increasingly at the forefront of decision-making, from company strategy down to project level, we are looking for a sustainability consultant to help deliver sustainability services for projects in the built environment. Our multidisciplinary team draws on expertise from all three pillars of sustainability, working predominantly to promote land and secure development in the UK planning system, with some corporate level advisory work. We assemble a bespoke team for each project to fit the client's needs. We are particularly interested in those who are passionate about the social side of sustainability. We are open to considering a wide range of academic backgrounds, but understanding the UK planning system and development sector is desirable.

To make a significant impact in this role, you'll demonstrate a keen interest in and stay up-to-date with UK legislation, policy, industry standards, and market drivers related to planning and sustainability. You'll be expected to think innovatively, embedding health, well-being, equality, and climate resilience principles into development projects. Coordinating design teams to achieve commercially viable and ambitious sustainability credentials and targets will be a key responsibility. You'll also assist with the social aspects of corporate sustainability strategy, supporting clients in achieving long-term sustainable growth. This will involve assessing impacts related to social sustainability, such as health impact assessments and equalities impact assessments, and contributing to Population & Human Health/Socioeconomic Environmental Statement chapters as needed.

You'll contribute to social value strategies to support the planning process and shape our clients' overall approach to social value within their organisations. Effective project management and delivery and adhering to programme and budget constraints while reporting to the project lead are crucial. You will identify growth opportunities, assist with bids for future work, and conduct research to develop innovative new services. You will also be required to produce high-quality written reports, prepare thought pieces and blogs, and assist with internal and external presentations. You'll also be expected to attend site visits and project meetings, as well as delegate, coach, and review the work of junior colleagues.

About You

Ideally, you will possess a degree at a 2:1 level or higher and the role would likely suit someone with between 3 and 6 years of relevant consultancy experience, of which some must be in planning. We welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, provided you demonstrate ambition, genuine interest, and transferable skills. A foundational understanding of the UK planning system and a broad awareness of environmental, social, economic, and sustainability issues are essential. You'll be committed to continuous professional development and show a strong willingness to learn and advance within the field.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial, as is a personable and professional demeanour coupled with high motivation, ambition, and drive.

You'll excel in team environments, demonstrating strong collaboration skills. A commercially minded approach and the ability to take personal responsibility are vital. You'll be highly committed, have a keen eye for detail, and possess the ability to manage your own time and workload effectively. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required. Finally, a full UK driving license and a willingness to travel nationally are necessary for this position.

Why not apply today!

About Stantec

The Stantec community unites more than 31,000 employees working in over 450 locations across 6 continents. We have been working with our clients and communities in the UK for over 150 years. We plan, design, deliver and manage the development and infrastructure needed to support the creation of sustainable, healthy and prosperous communities.

Our teams provide effective and relevant solutions, translating our clients’ vision into valued consents, deliverable plans for projects and programmes, and efficient designs for delivery, based on technical excellence and deep market insights. We deal with today’s challenges, but also keep a fairer, better tomorrow in sight, looking at how we deliver clean growth, support radical changes in our economy and meet the needs of future communities.

Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment.

Building an inspired, inclusive work environment that attracts, supports, and develops world-class talent is a crucial key to our success. If you are excited by this role but worry that your experience doesn’t exactly align, we encourage you to apply.

At Stantec we want you to perform your best at every stage of the recruitment process and are committed to ensuring it is accessible to all. If you need any support or require adjustments to be made then please contact careers.UK& [email protected] and we will talk to you about how we can support you.