At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful macroeconomic research and develop bold policy ideas for the UK economy.
- Company: NEF, a forward-thinking organisation focused on economic justice and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, shorter working week, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to making a real difference in economic policy.
- Why this job: Shape public debate and influence decision-makers with your innovative economic insights.
- Qualifications: Experience in economics, strong analytical skills, and a passion for public policy.
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 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 future of the UK economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist - Macroeconomics
✨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. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which can really boost your chances of landing that interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the job description. Practise articulating your thoughts on economic policies and be ready to discuss your past projects in detail.
✨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
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Economist role. Highlight relevant experience in macroeconomics and public finance, and don’t forget to showcase any projects that align with NEF's mission. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious goals!
Answer the Questions Thoughtfully:When tackling 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 creativity and evidence-based ideas, so let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Impact:In your project description, focus on the impact of your work. How did you shape the question and manage uncertainty? We love self-starters who can take an idea from concept to delivery, so make sure to highlight your leadership skills!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at NEF. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at NEW ECONOMICS FOUNDATION
✨Know Your Macroeconomics Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on key macroeconomic concepts, especially those relevant to the UK economy. Be prepared to discuss fiscal and monetary policies, inflation, and public finance in detail. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the topics but can engage in meaningful discussions about them.
✨Craft Your Policy Idea Thoughtfully
When asked about an economic policy idea, think creatively and practically. Identify a pressing issue, back it up with solid evidence, and consider who the key stakeholders are. This demonstrates your ability to think critically and strategically, which is crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare to discuss a substantial project you've led from start to finish. Highlight how you identified the problem, navigated uncertainties, and ensured the project had a tangible impact. This will illustrate your leadership capabilities and your ability to deliver results.
✨Communicate Complex Ideas Simply
Practice explaining complex economic issues as if you were briefing a busy MP. Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon. This skill is essential for influencing decision-makers and ensuring your ideas resonate with a broader audience.
