At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research on macroeconomics and public policy to influence decision-makers.
- 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 collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the UK economy with bold, evidence-based policy ideas.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in economics and strong analytical skills required.
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.
Role: Senior Economist Macroeconomics
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 & Public Policy Impact in London employer: NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
At NEF, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, where innovative thinkers can thrive. Our commitment to a shorter working week allows for a better work-life balance, while our focus on impactful policy development provides meaningful opportunities for professional growth and engagement in critical economic issues. Located in the vibrant city of London, we offer a dynamic environment that encourages creativity and the pursuit of bold ideas to influence public debate and decision-making.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist: Macroeconomics & Public Policy Impact in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent projects. We should know what makes NEF tick and be ready to discuss how our skills align with their mission. It shows we’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice articulating our ideas clearly and confidently. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help us refine our pitch. Remember, we want to convey our passion for macroeconomics and public policy impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at NEF and contributing to meaningful change.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Economist: Macroeconomics & Public Policy Impact in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the job description. Highlight your experience in macroeconomics and public policy, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant projects that align with NEF's mission. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Answer the Questions Thoughtfully:When answering the application questions, be clear and concise. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet the criteria. Remember, we’re looking for self-starters who can think critically about economic issues!
Show Your Passion for Policy:In your responses, let your passion for economic policy shine through. Discuss why you care about the issues NEF tackles and how you envision making an impact. We love candidates who are politically engaged and ready to make a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. 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 in macroeconomics and public policy. Be ready to discuss current issues like inflation, fiscal policy, and economic security. Showing that you’re well-informed will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare Your Policy Ideas
Think of a bold economic policy idea that NEF could develop. Make sure you can articulate the problem it addresses, the evidence needed, and who would need to be persuaded. This shows initiative and aligns with their goal of impactful policy development.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss a substantial project you’ve led from start to finish. Highlight how you shaped the question, managed uncertainties, and ensured the work had a real impact. This will demonstrate your ability to handle complex projects with limited supervision.
✨Communicate Complex Issues Simply
Practice explaining complex economic issues as if you were briefing a busy MP. Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon. This skill is crucial for influencing decision-makers and will show your ability to communicate effectively in a political context.
