Centre for Thriving Places

Who We Are

Centre for Thriving Places is a place-based, not-for-profit consultancy established in 2010. Born out of the desire to redefine economic success, our organization is dedicated to putting the wellbeing of people, places and the planet at the heart of local decision-making. Based in Bristol, UK, we have evolved from the Happy City Initiative into a respected consultancy that provides strategic support, training and research solutions to communities and public organisations across the United Kingdom.

Our work spans local authorities, community groups, and public sector organisations, helping them develop evidence-based strategies that measure what truly matters—the quality of life and resilience of their communities.

Our Values and Mission

We believe that economic progress should be measured not just by financial growth but also by the improvement of everyday living standards. Our mission is to transform how success is defined and measured, shifting focus from purely economic indicators to holistic wellbeing outcomes.

Our core values include:

• Evidence-based research and impact measurement – We ground our work in robust data and proven methodologies
• Community-led and place-based strategies – We believe those closest to challenges are best placed to shape solutions
• Transparency in public policy and decision-making – We advocate for open, accountable governance
• Sustainable practices and resilient communities – We champion approaches that protect both people and planet for the long term

These guiding principles empower us to support local authorities in building practical, research-driven pathways that enhance wellbeing and foster inclusive growth. We're proud to be at the forefront of the wellbeing economy movement, influencing policy and practice at local and national levels.

Our Team and Culture

Our team is a diverse group of around 20 dedicated professionals who blend academic rigour with practical consultancy expertise. From researchers and data analysts to strategic advisors and community engagement specialists, we bring together varied skills united by a shared passion for positive social change.

We work collaboratively in a flexible, remote-friendly environment that values clear communication and minimal bureaucracy. Our flat organizational structure means your voice is heard, and every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas and solutions that drive our mission forward. We foster a culture of continuous learning, where challenging conventional wisdom and exploring innovative approaches is not just accepted but celebrated.

Working at Centre for Thriving Places means engaging in meaningful projects where your expertise makes a real difference in shaping local and national conversations about wellbeing. You'll have the opportunity to work on diverse challenges, from developing wellbeing measurement frameworks to designing community engagement strategies that genuinely empower residents.

Employee Benefits

Joining our team means enjoying a range of employee benefits designed to support work-life balance and professional growth. We don't just advocate for wellbeing in communities—we practice it within our own organization.

Our benefits include:

• 32-hour work week – Reduced working hours with a standard four-day week, allowing for greater personal time and better work-life integration
• Flexible work-from-anywhere arrangements – Work remotely from any location that suits your lifestyle, with occasional team gatherings to maintain connection
• Comprehensive healthcare – Private health coverage to support your physical wellbeing
• Employer pension scheme – Generous contributions to help you plan for your future
• Professional development support – Access to training, conferences, and learning opportunities to grow your skills
• Mental health support – Resources and support to maintain your psychological wellbeing
• Minimal meetings policy – We respect your time with a lean approach to meetings, ensuring focused, productive workdays

These benefits reflect our commitment to creating a supportive environment where every employee can thrive and contribute to our collective mission. We understand that doing meaningful work requires sustainable working practices.

Why Join Us

At Centre for Thriving Places, we view each project as an opportunity to drive positive change. We value honesty, collaboration and a clear focus on outcomes that benefit communities. Our consulting approach is designed to empower local decision-makers, ensuring that the growth we help stimulate translates into improved living standards for all.

If you're passionate about creating a fairer, more sustainable future—and want to work for an organization that practices what it preaches when it comes to wellbeing—we'd love to hear from you. Join us in pioneering new ways to measure and create prosperity that puts people and planet first.