At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful macroeconomic research and develop bold policy ideas for the UK economy.
- Company: Join NEF, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to economic justice and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values creativity and fresh perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public debate and influence key decision-makers in economics.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in economics, data analysis, and project leadership.
The predicted salary is between 54470 - 60480 € per year.
NEF is looking for a Senior Economist to lead ambitious, policy-relevant work on macroeconomics, public finance and the future of the UK economy. This is an exciting opportunity for a rigorous, creative and politically engaged economist who is motivated to develop bold, practical and well-evidenced policy ideas that can shift public debate and influence decision-makers.
The successful candidate will lead work across a wide range of areas, including fiscal policy, monetary policy, public investment, inflation, taxation, debt, living standards, industrial strategy, economic security, and the macroeconomic conditions needed for a fast and fair transition. We are particularly interested in self-starters: people who can identify important economic questions, immerse themselves quickly in the evidence, and use data tools and AI intelligently to develop substantial projects from early idea through to impactful, public-facing outputs with limited supervision.
Hours of work: Full Time (32 hours per week under NEF’s Shorter Working Week)
Salary: £54,470 - £60,480
Location: London (in-office minimum two days per week)
Contract type: Permanent
How to apply:
- Deadline for applications: midnight, 12th June 2026
- Interviews: First stage interviews 24th June with second stage in person interviews on the 30th June
- Start date: ASAP
Please send your CV and your answer to the following questions in Word format:
- Set out how your experience meets the essential criteria in the job description (300 words max)
- Identify one economic policy idea that NEF should develop over the next year. What problem would it address, what evidence would you need, and who would need to be persuaded? (200 words max)
- Tell us about a substantial project or workstream you led, ideally from conception to delivery. How did you shape the question, manage any uncertainty and ensure the work had impact? (200 words max)
- Explain a complex economic issue you have worked on or wish to work on and do so as if you are briefing a busy MP. (200 words max)
Please also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form. You must be eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to sponsor visas.
Inclusivity at NEF: NEF wants to be an inclusive workplace with a diverse body of staff. We don’t want to conform to the traditional think-tank model where people from certain backgrounds are hugely under-represented. We know we have some way to go in this and are therefore genuinely keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; women; neurodivergent people; disabled people; people who identify as LGBT; people with experience of mental health problems; and people who identify as working class or have done so in the past.
Accessibility and Equal Opportunity: We value all candidates and are committed to equal opportunity. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application process, or would like information in an alternative format, please let us know. We actively promote positive action to advance fairness and tackle underrepresentation within our workforce.
Senior Economist - Macroeconomics in London employer: NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
At NEF, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and diversity within our workforce. Our London-based team enjoys a supportive work culture that fosters creativity and innovation, allowing economists to engage in meaningful policy work while benefiting from a shorter working week. With ample opportunities for professional growth and the chance to influence key economic debates, NEF is the ideal place for passionate individuals eager to make a tangible impact on the UK economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist - Macroeconomics in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research NEF's recent projects and their stance on macroeconomic issues. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former NEF employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and insights into the role. This can give you a leg up and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how you can demonstrate your experience with fiscal and monetary policy. Use real examples from your past work to illustrate your points and show how you can make an impact at NEF.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining NEF and ready to contribute to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Economist - Macroeconomics in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Economist role. Highlight relevant experience in macroeconomics, public finance, and any projects that align with NEF's mission. We want to see how your background fits into our vision!
Answer the Questions Thoughtfully:When tackling the application questions, be clear and concise. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your skills and insights. We’re looking for creativity and evidence-based thinking, so don’t hold back!
Show Your Passion for Policy:In your responses, let your enthusiasm for economic policy shine through. Discuss why you care about the issues NEF tackles and how you can contribute to impactful solutions. We love self-starters who are politically engaged!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at NEF.
How to prepare for a job interview at NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
✨Know Your Macroeconomics
Brush up on the latest trends and theories in macroeconomics, especially those relevant to public finance and the UK economy. Be prepared to discuss how these concepts can influence policy-making and provide examples of how you've applied them in your previous work.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since the role involves leading substantial projects, come ready to discuss a specific project you’ve managed from start to finish. Highlight how you identified key questions, navigated uncertainties, and ensured impactful outcomes. Use data tools and AI in your examples to demonstrate your technical skills.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Policy Ideas
Think of a bold economic policy idea that NEF could develop. Be ready to explain the problem it addresses, the evidence needed to support it, and who the key stakeholders are that need to be persuaded. This shows your proactive thinking and alignment with NEF's mission.
✨Communicate Complex Issues Simply
Practice explaining complex economic issues as if you were briefing a busy MP. Focus on clarity and conciseness, ensuring you can convey essential information without jargon. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with decision-makers.
