Job Description

We are looking an agricultural policy social research and evaluation expert to join our growing team at senior consultant level. 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. Our marine team supports our clients address critical policy and management challenges on issues at the top of today's policy agenda.
There will be opportunities to work across this portfolio and beyond.
Your main responsibilities will be to:

• Undertake social research on agricultural and agri-environment issues
• Undertake evaluations of agricultural and agri-environment programmes and policy
• Lead and coordinate research project teams
• Lead and contribute to the development of proposals, including building teams, developing methodologies and budgets
• Build relationships with clients and the team's external networks and partnerships

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

• Demonstrable interest and knowledge of UK and EU agricultural and environmental policy and contexts
• Degree, Master's degree or PhD in in a relevant discipline
• Expertise in the design and implementation of a range of evaluation approaches and methods, including theory-based approaches
• Expertise in social research methods and behavioural science
• Ability to think through the methodological challenges of investigating a topic
• Experience of managing research projects, budgets, teams and client interactions
• Experience or writing competitive bids and/or grant applications
• Exceptional ability to write and communicate in English
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Relevant professional experience of at least 5 years

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.
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About us:
Working at ICF means applying a passion for meaningful work with intellectual rigor to help solve the leading issues of our day. Smart, compassionate, innovative, committed, ICF employees tackle unprecedented challenges to benefit people, businesses, and governments around the globe. We believe in collaboration, mutual respect, open communication, and opportunity for growth.
We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building an inclusive workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are committed to creating a culture where we embrace our differences in ideas and identities. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals.
Learn more about and our commitment to .
The 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.
We enjoy celebrating success, which is why we have a competitive recognition program called 'You Matter', which awards points as a 'thank you' for your work achievements. These can be spent on a large variety of high-quality items, as well as online or high-street vouchers, all with zero tax payable by the employee.
ICF also offers a range of competitive benefits, which include:

• Single Private Medical Insurance cover with no restrictions on existing conditions.
• Dental insurance and an online GP service.
• 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. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodations that involve the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at . We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
London (GB80)

Skills Required