We have partnered with Michael Page to recruit for this role. To apply, please visit Principal Economist - JN-072026-7063024 | Michael Page.
This role can be based at any of our office locations: London, Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, York, Glasgow. At ORR we have adopted hybrid working and are currently expected to work from a workplace location for a minimum of two days per week or 40%.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is the independent economic and safety regulator for Britain’s railways and monitor of performance on England’s strategic road network. This is an exciting time to join ORR, we are delivering a significant transformation programme to create a consistently agile and enabling organisation, with the right capability and a strong, inclusive culture that reflects our talented people. This will ensure we continue to operate as an independent, expert regulator, fit for the future and equipped with the capabilities and ways of working required to support sector-wide rail reform, while contributing to the government’s broader agenda on regulatory reform and economic growth. Further detail on our future role is set out here.
EFM provides rigorous economic analysis to underpin the development of policy & support decision-making.
We work on complex economic problems that combine commercial, public policy and regulatory
considerations. In the Rail Economics team, ORR employs a diverse group of talented economists working alongside industry
experts and policy makers. At ORR, your economic analysis can directly influence key decision making and
policy development. You will work on complex economic problems that combine commercial, public policy,
and regulatory matters. Your work at ORR will see you work closely with senior decision makers and build a
valuable skill set, combining technical, commercial, and delivery experience.
We are a diverse team of talented economists working alongside industry experts and policy makers. As part of
our team, your economic analysis can directly influence decision making and the development of key policies
in UK rail regulation.
It's an exciting time to join the team as you will have the opportunity to contribute to the design of the emerging
regulatory framework for a reformed rail industry following the creation of Great British Railways, which will
bring together ‘track and train’ into one body. You can read more about the government’s plans for the rail
industry in its consultation document.
We work on complex economic problems that combine commercial, public policy, and regulatory matters. You
will support our team’s work on the charges train operators pay to access the rail network, and the financial
incentive payments made by the industry which help to drive better performance on the rail network, as ORR’s
role in this area transitions to that specified in the government’s rail reform consultation.
We also work with teams across ORR on the economic impact of potential changes to track, station or depot
access for trains, including on the impact that operating new train services could have on existing markets. Your
work will help to build a unique skill set which combines commercial expertise with public policy experience.
As a senior manager in our team, you are expected to be a role model for other members of the team and to
positively demonstrate ORR’s values. You are expected to take initiative in your role and maintain a strong
sense of accountability for your own work.
In joining ORR you will benefit from flexible working patterns that support your personal commitments while
developing a challenging career. We are committed to personal development and you will be offered attractive
training opportunities to help develop your economic and professional skills.
Please refer to the attached Job Description and Job Information Pack for further details.
Find out what our colleagues have to say about their ORR careers at Our people | Office of Rail and Road (orr.gov.uk).
We have partnered with Michael Page to recruit for this role. To apply, please visit Principal Economist - JN-072026-7063024 | Michael Page. To arrange a confidential discussion, please contact Kas Rothwell at or +44 20 7269 2494 quoting job reference JN-072026-7063024.
Principal Economist in Glasgow employer: Office of Rail and Road
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment across multiple locations including London, Birmingham, and Manchester. With a strong commitment to hybrid working, employees enjoy flexibility while contributing to vital regulatory reforms in the rail industry. ORR fosters a culture of inclusivity and professional growth, ensuring that team members are equipped with the skills and support needed to thrive in their roles and make a meaningful impact on the future of Britain's railways.
