Economist in London

Join Ofwat’s RAPID Economist Hub as an Economist.

Office Location: London (E14 4HD) or Birmingham (B5 4UA) with hybrid working.

About Us

We are Ofwat, the Water Services Regulation Authority, a non‑ministerial government department responsible for regulating the water sector in England and Wales. The water sector is entering a new chapter. The government has set out a bold new direction, bringing together expertise from across the sector to deliver better outcomes for customers and the environment. We are collaborating with fellow regulators to respond to recommendations in The Independent Water Commission Report, the Welsh Government’s response to the Green Paper, Shaping the Future of Water Governance in Wales, and the Government’s White Paper, A new vision for water. Ofwat is working with the government and other regulators to help create a new body for England, bringing together our strengths with those of the Drinking Water Inspectorate, the Environment Agency and Natural England. We are also continuing to work with the Welsh Government to support decisions on the future arrangements for Wales. While these changes take shape, our mission remains the same: to hold water companies to account, drive performance, and ensure the sector delivers real value for customers, communities, and the environment. If you’re passionate about making a difference, this is a unique moment to join us and help shape the future of water, and together we can continue to make a positive impact.

The Role

We are looking for a Senior Associate Economist to support our Economics Hub currently within the RAPID and Environmental Planning directorate. Following Ofwat’s final determination for the 2024 Price Review, we are beginning delivery of an ambitious programme of 30 major water infrastructure projects, costing over £50 billion. This includes new reservoirs, water recycling projects and major water transfers. Joining the Economics Hub team, you will have the opportunity to support the RAPID and Major Projects teams in providing economic advice and recommendations to help shape the future of water regulation by contributing to the development of policy and regulatory frameworks for major water infrastructures. The regulatory and commercial frameworks must evolve to accommodate a programme of strategic water supply infrastructure development at a scale that has not happened for more than half a century. Most projects will involve multiple water companies, and it is important that future frameworks deliver value for customers and the environment. You will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with other teams across Ofwat, including the Price Review team in setting cost allowances and incentives. You will also work closely with other regulatory partners, with the opportunity to develop knowledge and experience outside of economics. This role would suit economists who are keen to apply their skills to a high‑profile and fast‑developing area. You will be proactive and adaptable, responding flexibly to organisational needs and will benefit from ample opportunities to further develop your knowledge, experience, and skillset through ongoing professional development within the economist community across Ofwat and within the RAPID and Major Projects teams.

About You

• Strong economics background, including a degree in economics and/or a discipline with significant economic/numerate content, or equivalent relevant professional experience.
• Experience of developing and applying economic analysis and advice in a regulatory, policy or commercial environment to inform decision making and deliver long‑term outcomes.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, including experience of identifying, analysing and accurately interpreting a range of data and insights to inform evidence‑based decisions and solutions for complex problems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain policy issues, influence internal and external stakeholders, and present complex or technical information to non‑technical audiences.
• Experience of working under pressure – planning, prioritising and managing a varied and changing work programme / workload to meet different, and often tight, deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, and as part of a team, using creativity and innovative approaches.

Why You Should Join Us

• People Centric: Our people are at the heart of Ofwat and everything we do – we ensure all voices are heard and treat each other with respect; you'll be given the autonomy and the support to do your role in the best way.
• Innovative Work Environment: We embrace agile and new ways of working and have a culture built on trust, flexibility, and collaboration.
• Development Opportunities: Gain valuable experience and develop your skills in a supportive and dynamic setting.
• Work‑Life Balance: Enjoy the flexibility of working from home combined with the benefits of in‑person collaboration in our Birmingham and London offices.
• Excellent employer pension contributions of up to 29%.
• 25 days’ annual leave, increasing to 30 with each year of service, plus bank holidays and an extra 2.5 days of privilege leave.
• Access to exclusive discounts on a variety of goods and services, including retail outlets, theatre tickets, holidays, insurance, and a gym membership.
• Fees paid for membership of relevant professional bodies.
• Up to 3 volunteering days per year.
• Generous shared parental leave and pay supporting your family life.