Consultancy

Consultancy is the application of existing knowledge to advise an external partner on a specific problem or need. It can include:

• Management consultancy and business strategy
• The collation of statistics
• Expert advice or opinion
• Audits
• Writing computer programmes
• Reviewing policies and procedures

These projects are usually short-term, with clearly defined objectives and outputs.

Consultancy is an excellent way to connect with non-academic partners and often provides a route to impact. It can also generate longer term research collaborations and be the catalyst for larger research projects. The University recognises and encourages consultancy activity, as it contributes to its aim of promoting external engagement, enterprise and innovation.

Our student community also benefits from consultancy through the creation of research assistant roles, placement opportunities, and development of new teaching materials.

At Essex, you receive 100% of the consultancy fees. You can choose whether this is paid to you as additional salary, added to your ERIA, or split between them.

Undertaking University consultancy

When you undertake consultancy through the University, the contract is between the University and the client, with you acting as an authorised agent of the University.

The Knowledge Exchange team provide dedicated support to:

• Promote and market your expertise (including preparing case studies)
• Negotiate fees to reflect current market rates
• Prepare contracts and with due consideration to intellectual property rights
• Assist with financial administration of the consultancy
• Provide professional indemnity and public liability insurance cover

Thinking of undertaking a private consultancy?

Any private consultancy work must still be approved by the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research). In these circumstances, you are personally liable for any claims made against your work. You are not permitted to use the University name or logo in any communications or outputs and cannot access university facilities. All work activities also be carried out in your own time.

How does consultancy differ from contract research?

Consultancy requires the application of existing knowledge to address a client need.

With contract research, the generation of new knowledge is the primary aim.

Clients or funders usually own the foreground intellectual property for any consultancy work and confidentiality terms may apply.  However, we usually request the right to use the IP for further academic research, publishing, and teaching purposes.

Learn more about the difference between consultancy and contract research.

Getting started

If you would like to get involved in university consultancy, contact your Knowledge Exchange Manager (KEM) to discuss your interests and expertise.

Perhaps an organisation has already been in touch with you about providing consultancy? Contact your KEM who will be in touch to discuss next steps.

Download our Consultancy policy (.pdf) for more information.