Principal Economist in Cardiff

As a Principal Economist at Alma Economics, you will take the lead on multiple projects by designing and applying innovative analytical approaches on a variety of topics. You will have direct line management responsibilities for a team of 2‑4 economists and other researchers, providing guidance on the application of theory and techniques. You’ll be responsible for the effective day‑to‑day operation of your team, providing thought leadership and guidance, and supporting them to enhance and develop their professional skills. You’ll identify business development and marketing opportunities and lead on the preparation of bid materials and proposals to help grow our company’s capabilities, build client relationships, and expand our business. You will be mentored by top experts in their field, helping develop your analysis, teamwork, and project‑management skills.

Successful candidates will work on projects that tackle the most critical challenges facing society today. You will work as part of multi‑disciplinary teams and be immediately exposed to clients and our partners. You will interact with our senior leadership, Tech, Commercial, and Communications teams, gaining exposure to a range of projects and interacting with professionals from diverse backgrounds.

Who we want to work with

You are an experienced leader and enjoy working with others. You take active steps to develop, support and inspire your colleagues. Your technical economics abilities are exceptional, and you have strong project and stakeholder management skills. You excel at leading teams, enjoy working with others, and take active steps to support and develop your colleagues. You can explain complex ideas clearly and effectively. You are always eager to learn and operate with integrity. As our work evolves, you'll have opportunities to expand your skills, satisfy your intellectual curiosity, and define your role in a dynamic environment. At Alma, your ideas and ambition matter. Successful candidates will thrive in a fast‑paced workplace culture that values your contributions, with a continued focus on your professional growth and development.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a team of senior economists and researchers.
• Manage project teams to ensure delivery of high‑quality outputs that meet or exceed company standards.
• Formulate strategies with senior staff for project delivery, business development and resource allocation.
• Develop research techniques and methodologies tailored to client needs and expectations.
• Actively pursue new business opportunities and help shape the company’s strategic direction.
• Collaborate with senior management to formulate strategies for project delivery, business development, and resource allocation.
• Engage and build relationships with stakeholders and clients.
• Provide thought leadership and direction to colleagues.
• Foster a collaborative and effective team environment.
• Reinforce company culture and values.

Requirements

• University‑level degree in Economics, Econometrics, or a related field (MSc or PhD is a plus, though not required).
• Fluency in English – both written and oral (fluency in other languages is a plus, but not necessary).
• Experience in leadership positions in government, academia, consulting, or the voluntary sector.
• Commercial experience, including developing bids and proposals, managing budgets, and contributing to business development.
• Experience in one or more of the key policy areas we cover.

Working arrangements

You will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the work we do from day one. Alma Economics is a friendly and informal place, and our offices are designed for both work and play. Our team consists of enthusiastic and talented individuals, who love learning and are always ready to support others. We do not have a one‑size‑fits‑all WfH policy. Most staff members work from home for one or two days during a typical week, while it is also possible to arrange to WfH for more extended periods (e.g., 2‑4 weeks) to visit family or travel. While most staff work 5‑day weeks, for most full‑time positions we also offer the option of a 4‑day working week, either from day one or as an arrangement employees can transition into later in their Alma career. Our offices can accommodate disabled access, and we are committed to providing all necessary support to colleagues that require it, but we are also happy to consider remote working arrangements for applicants with disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from working on‑site.