At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on labour markets and social security to drive impactful policy changes.
- Company: Join NEF, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to social justice and economic equality.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values your unique perspective and promotes equal opportunity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by shaping social policy and improving job conditions.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in economics, project management, and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 54470 - 60480 £ per year.
NEF are looking for a talented Senior Economist to lead policy and research work on social policy issues, with a particular focus on labour markets, social security, and incomes. In this role, you would conduct research and advocacy on labour markets, and help NEF to make the case for an adequate and supportive social security system, both to reduce poverty but also to improve conditions in the labour market and help more people into good jobs. Alongside this, you will also support with wider work on housing and public services.
This role will manage an exciting programme of work at a critical time. You will use your outstanding technical expertise and project management experience to design and deliver quality, cutting‑edge research capable of winning changes in policy and public opinion. You will be a passionate champion of our work – influencing policy and decision makers in government, the civil service, political parties, as well as civil society organisations and media who are shaping the debate.
This will be a fantastic opportunity for someone who can demonstrate progressively senior responsibility and impact in an economist role, and who is looking for their next challenge. You will bring outstanding technical skills and subject knowledge, as well as a good understanding of how to effect changes in policy and practice. You will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, and be an effective project manager, line manager and fundraiser.
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, 14th June 2026
Interviews: First stage interviews 25th June with second stage in person interviews on the 7th July
Please send your CV (no longer than two pages) and covering letter (no longer than two pages) outlining how you meet the person specification in Word format to recruitment@neweconomics.org. 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 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 – Labour Markets and Social Security employer: Neweconomics
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 prioritises employee well-being through initiatives like the Shorter Working Week, allowing for a better work-life balance. With ample opportunities for professional growth and the chance to influence meaningful social policy, joining NEF as a Senior Economist means contributing to impactful research while advancing your career in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist – Labour Markets and Social Security
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to NEF. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching NEF's recent projects and policies. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for social policy and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Economist. We want to hear about your impact and how you can help shape labour market policies.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Economist – Labour Markets and Social Security
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Economist role. Highlight your experience in labour markets and social security, and show us how your skills align with NEF's mission. This is your chance to shine!
Showcase Your Research Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention any relevant research projects you've led or contributed to. We want to see your technical expertise and how you’ve used it to influence policy or public opinion.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your CV and cover letter to the point—no more than two pages each! Use clear language and structure to make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for this role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to include all required documents and complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form to help us promote inclusivity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Neweconomics
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and research in labour markets and social security. NEF is looking for someone who can demonstrate outstanding technical expertise, so be prepared to discuss relevant policies and your insights on how they can be improved.
✨Show Your Passion
This role requires a passionate champion of social policy issues. Be ready to share examples of how you've influenced policy or public opinion in the past. Your enthusiasm for making a difference will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Project Management Prowess
Since this position involves managing an exciting programme of work, highlight your project management experience. Prepare specific examples of projects you've led, focusing on how you delivered quality research and achieved impactful results.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are a must. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
