Strategy Associate

Roles and responsibilities

Desirable Knowledge and Expertise

Candidates will be expected to possess deep expertise in one or more of the following:

• Business strategy, data analytics and operations planning.
• Business Process Development and Improvement.
• Creating and delivering change management strategies and organizational development plans.
• Expertise in user research, design strategy, and space programming.
• Design background in architecture, business, IT/IS, planning, interiors, product or web design.

Technical Skills Range

Candidates will be expected to possess skills in one or more of the following:

• Microsoft Office Suite.
• Visio, Excel, Tableau, Power BI data manipulation and analytics.
• Web based data analytics, visualization and presentation software.
• Project management, project work planning, scheduling and resource deployment.
• Business development, market planning and client relationships.
• Space programming, user research, design strategy and conceptual design.
• Revit, GIS, Python or other space planning / design CAD systems.

Culture and Personality

Candidates will be expected to possess as many of these attributes as possible:

• Highly collaborative, highly communicative, creative team leader.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills – “Design Story Telling”.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, open, creative environment.
• Ability to lead workshops, focus groups and presentations.
• Critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.
• Familiarity with research methodologies and processes.
• High degree of flexibility and the ability to lead multiple projects in multiple teams, across multiple markets.

Outline of Duties

Working as a collaborative team member, this individual will be responsible for:

• Lead and deliver all aspects of services from inception of a project through to completion.
• Achieve the highest standards of professional competence and to demonstrate this ability in all dealings with clients and professional contacts, reinforcing the profile of the company.
• Drive performance standards and technical excellence through expert communication and effective use of the performance management process and AECOM technical practice networks.
• Maintain and develop good relationships with clients, take every opportunity to uphold and increase the profile of the firm as a provider of professional, premium quality services to the construction industry.
• Actively support the internal team and manage more junior staff on technically complex projects.
• As an Associate you will also be actively involved developing marketing opportunities and where appropriate bring to the attention of Directors and the Business Development Department, in order that they may assist in following up potential leads enabling the development of new business.

Desired candidate profile

1. Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving

• Business Strategy Development: Ability to develop long-term strategies to guide the company toward achieving its objectives, taking into account market trends, competitive landscape, and organizational strengths.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to identify problems and come up with innovative solutions that help the company improve its performance or overcome challenges.
• Industry Insight: Understanding of industry trends and market dynamics to create actionable strategies and stay ahead of the competition.
• Competitive Analysis: Conducting in-depth analysis of competitors’ strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), and using insights to inform strategic decisions.

2. Data Analysis and Research

• Market Research: Conducting thorough market research to understand customer needs, market demand, competitor positioning, and industry changes. This research helps in formulating data-driven strategies.
• Data Interpretation: Ability to interpret complex data, identify key insights, and use them to guide decision-making. Familiarity with statistical analysis and data visualization tools is an advantage.
• Business Intelligence Tools: Proficiency in tools such as Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or other business intelligence platforms for analyzing and presenting data effectively.

3. Project Management

• Planning and Coordination: Managing projects, timelines, and resources to ensure the successful implementation of strategic initiatives. This may involve working with cross-functional teams.
• Task Prioritization: Effectively prioritizing tasks to ensure that the most critical strategic objectives are addressed first.
• Execution: Assisting with the execution of strategic plans by coordinating activities, tracking progress, and ensuring that all milestones are met.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential risks to the successful implementation of strategies and working on mitigating those risks.

4. Financial Analysis

• Budgeting and Forecasting: Assisting with the preparation of budgets and financial forecasts for strategic initiatives, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.
• Financial Modelling: Building financial models to assess the feasibility and profitability of potential strategies. This includes analyzing cost structures, revenue projections, and ROI.
• Profitability Analysis: Evaluating the financial impact of strategic initiatives to determine whether they align with company goals and contribute positively to profitability.

5. Communication and Presentation

• Report Writing: Preparing clear and concise reports that summarize research findings, strategic recommendations, and progress toward goals.
• Presentation Skills: Presenting findings and strategic recommendations to senior management or clients in a clear, compelling manner using data and visuals to support arguments.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Communicating and collaborating with other departments (e.g., marketing, operations, finance) to ensure alignment and gather relevant input on strategic initiatives.