Allyson Thirkell, PhD

International Development Consultant & Strategist

Dr. Allyson Thirkell is a distinguished International Social Development Consultant and strategic leader, leveraging a specialised foundation in Poverty, Housing, and Socio-Economic Analysis to drive impactful change across humanitarian and commercial sectors.

Available for immediate consultancy, Allyson provides evidence-based solutions that transform organizational strategy and address the world’s most complex development challenges.

Strategic Expertise & Deliverables

Drawing directly from decades of practical leadership and advanced academic training from the UK’s top institutions, Dr. Thirkell’s consultancy services deliver value in key areas:

• Deep Social Analysis: Her PhD from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), specialized in Poverty and Housing, alongside an MS from UCL’s Bartlett School of Architecture, provides unmatched analytical depth in vulnerability, infrastructure, and socio-economic planning.

• Organisational Quality & Strategy: As a former Director at Social Development Direct Limited, Allyson has a proven track record of providing expert quality assurance and strategic review for major international bodies.

• Sustainable Investment: Her strategic acumen extends to the private sector, where she provides advisory services on sustainable growth and investment, notably in the African energy sector through her directorial roles at companies like Energy Storage Africa Ltd.

• Equity and Inclusion: She is committed to advancing social justice, reflected in her governance work with non-profits dedicated to empowering women and girls.

Dr. Thirkell combines the rigorous thinking of an LSE academic with the practical delivery focus of a seasoned consultant. She is open to exploring new partnerships with governments, NGOs, and private firms seeking expert strategy, quality assurance, or deep analysis on complex international development, social policy, and sustainable investment projects.

To discuss your consultancy needs, please contact allyson@wginclusive.com