At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research on Universal Basic Services and public policy to improve economic security.
- Company: NEF, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to social justice and economic reform.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and innovative solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by shaping essential public services and policies.
- Qualifications: Strong background in economics, data analysis, and policy development.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ 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.
- 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.
Senior Economist: Universal Basic Services & Public Policy in London employer: NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
At NEF, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and diversity, fostering a collaborative work culture where innovative ideas thrive. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our support for professional development and the opportunity to lead impactful projects that shape public policy. Located in the heart of the UK, we offer a dynamic environment where passionate economists can make a real difference in advancing Universal Basic Services and economic security.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist: Universal Basic Services & Public Policy in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. 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 and public policy. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. We need to be confident in articulating our thoughts on complex economic issues, especially when briefing busy MPs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission at NEF.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Economist: Universal Basic Services & Public Policy in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before you start writing, take a moment to really get to grips with what NEF is looking for in a Senior Economist. Dive into the job description and think about how your skills and experiences align with their needs. This will help you tailor your application and show us that you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:When answering the questions, keep it straightforward. We want to see your thought process, but we also appreciate brevity. Stick to the word limits and make every word count. This shows us that you can communicate complex ideas effectively, which is key for this role.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for Universal Basic Services and public policy shine through! Share why these topics matter to you and how you envision making an impact. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the work we do at NEF.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows us that you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
✨Know Your Economic Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and theories in Universal Basic Services and public policy. Be ready to discuss how these concepts can be applied to real-world scenarios, as NEF is looking for someone who can think critically and creatively about economic issues.
✨Prepare Your Policy Idea
Think of a bold economic policy idea that NEF could develop. Outline the problem it addresses, the evidence needed, and who you'd need to convince. This shows your initiative and understanding of the role, plus it gives you a chance to showcase your analytical skills.
✨Project Management Stories
Have a substantial project example ready to share. Focus on how you shaped the question, navigated uncertainties, and ensured the work had a tangible impact. This will demonstrate your leadership abilities and your capacity to deliver results with limited supervision.
✨Simplify Complex Issues
Practice explaining complex economic issues in simple terms, as if you're briefing a busy MP. This skill is crucial for the role, so being able to communicate effectively and succinctly will set you apart from other candidates.
