At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead economic strategy and provide expert advice to drive competition and consumer protection.
- Company: Join the CMA, the UK's leading authority on competition and consumer rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and childcare benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on economic growth and household prosperity in a purpose-driven organisation.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a senior economist with strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team committed to your career development.
The predicted salary is between 140000 - 160000 £ per year.
Salary: £140,000 to £160,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time / Part time / Flexible
Location: Belfast, Cardiff, Darlington, Edinburgh, London or Manchester with regular travel
About us
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is the UK's principal competition and consumer protection authority. We promote competition and protect consumers with a clear end goal in mind: to drive economic growth and improve household prosperity. The CMA has a wide range of powers, which it uses to undertake a wide variety of cutting‐edge, high‐profile and complex work, spanning merger and market inquiries, competition and consumer law enforcement, subsidy advice and internal market advice. If you are a highly influential senior leader motivated to shape the CMA's essential work in the public interest, playing a pivotal role in the leadership of our economists and related teams, then this could be the ideal role for you.
Your role
As Chief Economic Adviser, you will have direct accountability for the quality of economic work carried out by the CMA and strategic leadership of the Economist profession. You will be an advisor to the CMA Board and a member of the Senior Executive Team, contributing to the development and implementation of organisational strategy and the delivery of a positive, respectful and inclusive culture. You will provide expert advice and guidance to ensure the CMA's approach to analytics and economics is robust and best in class across all its tools and functions. This is an exceptional opportunity to play a unique strategic and operational leadership role in an ambitious and purpose driven organisation, and to continue to take the CMA forward as the volume, breadth, complexity and importance of the work we undertake extends to new frontiers.
About you
You will bring to the role exceptional experience of working as a senior economist on competition law cases with a proven strong track record of taking strategic decisions and providing high quality and impactful economic advice. You will have strong inclusive leadership skills gained in organisations of similar size and complexity and your communication and influencing skills will equip you to manage complex, high-level stakeholder relationships.
The benefits
Your benefits package will include a competitive contributory pension scheme and generous annual leave, plus opportunities for flexible and hybrid working. The package also includes childcare benefits, and season ticket and bicycle loans. The Civil Service is committed to becoming the most inclusive employer in the UK and we want to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us. In return for your dedication, you will enjoy our commitment to your career and development.
How to apply
Applications for this post are only accepted online. You'll need to provide a CV and a tailored statement of suitability for the role, and to complete a diversity questionnaire. To discover more about this opportunity and make your application, please review the candidate pack and make an application via Chief Economic Adviser - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK.
Closing date: 9 February 2026.
Chief Economic Adviser in Edinburgh employer: Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)
Contact Detail:
Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Economic Adviser in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the CMA and its recent projects. We want you to show off your knowledge and passion for the role. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission and be ready to discuss specific examples of your work.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. We can’t stress enough how important it is to articulate your thoughts clearly and effectively during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We believe that showing appreciation for the opportunity can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Economic Adviser in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Economic Adviser role. Highlight your experience in competition law and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Strong Statement of Suitability: Your statement of suitability is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the CMA. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior leader, we need to see your inclusive leadership skills in action. Share examples of how you've led teams or influenced stakeholders in complex situations. This will help us understand your approach to leadership.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our official website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)
✨Know Your Economics Inside Out
As a Chief Economic Adviser, you'll need to demonstrate your deep understanding of economic principles and competition law. Brush up on recent cases and be ready to discuss how your expertise can influence the CMA's strategic decisions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in complex environments. Highlight your inclusive leadership style and how it has positively impacted team dynamics and outcomes.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
You'll be managing high-level stakeholder relationships, so think about your communication strategies. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex stakeholder landscapes in the past and how you plan to do so at the CMA.
✨Tailor Your Application Materials
Make sure your CV and statement of suitability are tailored specifically for this role. Highlight relevant experiences that align with the CMA's mission and values, showcasing your commitment to driving economic growth and consumer protection.