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- Tasks: Lead innovative research on UK tax policy and mentor junior researchers.
- Company: Join the Institute for Fiscal Studies, Europe's top centre for public policy research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension contributions, and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public policy while developing your career in economics.
- Qualifications: PhD in Economics and expertise in tax policy required.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to equal opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 93000 - 109000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid · London, UK (3 or 4 days a week in the office, with some flexibility)
Team: Tax
Seniority: Senior
Background to the role
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) is Europe's leading centre for research on the microeconomics of public policy. It is a politically independent registered educational charity aiming to bridge the gap between academia and the wider public. IFS researchers are not only excellent economists but are able to think creatively about economics and shape their innovative ideas into research programmes with both academic credibility and policy impact.
The IFS is looking to recruit an outstanding Associate Director to lead a programme of research on UK tax policy and to join our management team.
Responsibilities
- Leading a substantive and academically rigorous research programme on UK tax policy relevant questions.
- Publishing work of outstanding quality and significance within social science.
- Developing and carrying forward a coherent research strategy which achieves public recognition and a sustained national and international impact.
- Contributing to, and leading, major peer-reviewed funding bids for research programmes in own and related areas.
- Providing high-quality mentorship and training to junior researchers at IFS through collaboration on research projects.
- Contributing to the strategic leadership and functioning of IFS as part of the management team.
Person Specification
- Excellent academic background with at least one top-class degree in economics.
- Expertise in the policy context and existing academic research related to an area(s) of tax policy that is relevant to the UK context.
- A commitment to the IFS ethos of carrying out excellent research to inform public policy collaboratively.
- A track record of research on tax policy issues.
- Experience in providing training, mentoring and/or advice to junior researchers.
- PhD in Economics and a track record of publication in leading academic journals.
Application process
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Helen Miller, IFS Deputy Director and incoming Director (helen_m@ifs.org.uk) to discuss the role further. Please prepare a CV and Covering Letter, in the format of a single pdf file, explaining why you would be suitable for the role, with reference to the job description and person specification and detailing the area(s) of tax in which you have expertise. These should be uploaded to the BeApplied platform. Interviews will be held in late June.
Remuneration
The salary range for an Associate Director is £93,000 to £109,000; salary on appointment will depend on experience. 25 days of annual leave, plus Christmas closing, and the opportunity to "purchase" more leave if wanted. Season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme, 7.5% employer pension contributions, and wellbeing support through an employee wellbeing scheme.
A commitment to equal opportunities is important in our recruitment and in sustaining an atmosphere in which all staff are happy to work and develop their careers.
Associate Director, Tax in London employer: Institute for Fiscal Studies
Contact Detail:
Institute for Fiscal Studies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Tax in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the economics and public policy fields. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to chat about your expertise in tax policy. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Associate Director role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research chops! Prepare a portfolio of your best work and be ready to discuss it in detail during interviews. Highlight how your research has made an impact in the field of tax policy – this will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and presentation skills. Focus on articulating your vision for future research and how you can contribute to IFS's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Tax in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Associate Director, Tax. Highlight your relevant experience in tax policy and research, and don’t forget to showcase your academic achievements. We want to see how you fit into our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Reference specific points from the job description and person specification, and explain how your expertise aligns with our goals at IFS. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Research Impact: We’re looking for candidates with a track record of impactful research. In your application, be sure to highlight any significant contributions you've made to tax policy or related areas, especially those that have influenced public policy.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our BeApplied platform! It’s the best way for us to receive your documents and ensures everything is in one place. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Fiscal Studies
✨Know Your Tax Policy Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in UK tax policy. Familiarise yourself with current debates and key issues, as well as the IFS's previous research. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare to discuss your past research projects in detail. Be ready to explain your methodologies, findings, and how they contributed to policy discussions. Highlight any publications you've had in leading academic journals, as this will be crucial for the Associate Director position.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentorship Experience
Since this role involves managing a team and mentoring junior researchers, come prepared with examples of how you've successfully led teams or provided guidance in your previous roles. Share specific instances where your mentorship made a difference in someone's career.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the IFS's research strategy and how you can contribute. This shows that you're not just interested in the position, but also in being an active part of their mission to inform public policy.
