At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research on Universal Basic Services and economic security.
- Company: NEF, a forward-thinking organisation focused on social justice and economic reform.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to creating a fairer economy.
- Why this job: Shape bold policies that improve access to essential services and drive public debate.
- Qualifications: Experience in economics, data analysis, and project management.
The predicted salary is between 54470 - 60480 € per year.
NEF is looking for a Senior Economist to lead ambitious, policy-relevant work on Universal Basic Services, public services and economic security. 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 improve people’s access to life’s essentials and help shift public debate.
The successful candidate will lead work across a wide range of areas, including public services, social infrastructure, care, childcare, transport, housing, digital inclusion, local services, public value, delivery models, fiscal design, distributional impacts, and the role of universal provision in building a fairer economy. 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, 8th June 2026
- Interviews: First stage interviews 22nd June with second stage in person interviews on the 29th 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? (300 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 – Universal Basic Services in London employer: NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
At NEF, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and diversity while fostering a collaborative work culture. Our commitment to a shorter working week allows for a better work-life balance, and our London location provides access to a vibrant network of policy influencers. We offer substantial opportunities for professional growth, encouraging our employees to lead impactful projects that shape public debate and improve economic security for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist – Universal Basic Services in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and engage on social media. 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 company and its values. We should be ready to discuss how our skills align with their mission, especially around Universal Basic Services. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. We can help each other refine our answers and boost our confidence before facing the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows we’re enthusiastic and professional, and it keeps us on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Economist – Universal Basic Services in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Economist role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially around Universal Basic Services and economic policy.
Answer the Questions Thoughtfully:When responding to the application questions, be clear and concise. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet the criteria and showcase your understanding of the issues at hand.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see your motivation for improving access to essential services and how you can contribute to shifting public debate on these important topics.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in Universal Basic Services and the key economic issues surrounding it. Brush up on recent studies, policy debates, and NEF's previous work. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Prepare to discuss substantial projects you've led, especially those that align with the job description. Be ready to explain how you shaped the questions, managed uncertainties, and ensured impactful outcomes. Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and experience.
✨Think Like a Policy Maker
When discussing your economic policy idea, think about the broader implications. Identify the problem it addresses, the evidence needed, and who the key stakeholders are. This shows you can think critically and strategically, which is crucial for a Senior Economist role.
✨Practice Your Briefing Skills
Since you'll need to explain complex economic issues clearly, practice summarising your work as if you're briefing a busy MP. Focus on clarity and conciseness, ensuring you can communicate your ideas effectively to non-experts.
