At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead economic modelling projects and support tech-focused policy design.
- Company: Join a dynamic consultancy tackling global policy challenges.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Diverse team with family-friendly policies and excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact on tech economics and shape future policies.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantitative research and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
ABOUT PUBLIC FIRST
Public First is a policy, research, opinion and strategy consultancy. We work with global companies, governments, start-ups, institutions and foundations around the world to tackle major public policy and strategic challenges. We are part think tank, part strategic consultancy, part polling company, and part communications agency. In other words, we bring together the different disciplines that make policy happen and work.
Our recent projects have included:
- Helping Google quantify their economic and social impact in over 20 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and North America.
- Examining the future of British media and entertainment with Sky.
- Running the Hybrid Work Commission on the economic and policy impact of the shift towards more flexible working.
- Measuring the economic impact of Uber in over 15 countries, including in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America.
- Exploring public attitudes to AI in the UK and US.
We take an analytical approach to research, deploying economic modelling, data analysis, and opinion research to shape effective policy, create strategy and deliver communications with impact. We work with some of the world’s leading organisations on topics including tech, climate change, Industrial Strategy and education, exploring questions such as:
- What will the impact be of AI on the economies of countries across the world?
- How will the rise of autonomous vehicles change mobility?
- What will the spillover impact be on local economies?
- How can we accelerate the development of infrastructure to support growth and sustainability across the UK?
We are currently looking to recruit a Senior Economist, specialising in Tech Economics, to help build and scale our Economics, Modelling and Impact practice. Public First is part of SHGH, a group of cross-border advisory firms, guiding clients through an unprecedented period of change in policy, politics, regulation, and sustainable growth.
THE ROLE
In this role, you would:
- Lead on the design, implementation and write up on new economic modelling projects, primarily working with tech clients (typically covering AI and datacentres as policy areas of focus).
- Work to build our wider data practice, and support our work in impact measurement, policy design, polling and opinion research.
- Help bring in new clients and projects for the team with a tech focus.
The right candidate will have:
- Extensive experience with quantitative research (e.g. input-output modelling, contingent valuation etc).
- Strong written communication skills.
- Demonstrated interest in public policy, specifically on the impact of AI and other emerging technologies.
- Experience with client engagement and project management, ideally in a consulting environment.
While not essential, we are highly interested in candidates with any of the following particular experience or interests:
- Green Book compliant appraisal.
- The economic impact of AI on economic growth and the labour market.
- Energy system modelling.
- Coding in Python or R.
- Previous experience working with large tech firms.
Senior Economist starting salaries will typically start from £60,000-£80,000, with considerable flexibility depending on previous experience and skill. We value diversity and encourage applications from all groups. We work in a mix of in the office and at home, with our main office based in Westminster. Many of us, including the founders, have young children and we work hard to be family friendly. International travel and work would be possible for future projects.
HOW TO APPLY
This application will involve a short test prior to the interview which should take no longer than three hours. We will be interviewing on an ongoing basis, and looking for successful candidates to start as possible. Please follow the instructions after clicking "Apply for this job", and submit the application no later than midnight on 1st May 2026. Successful candidates will be invited to attend a virtual interview. The final candidates will then be invited to an in-person interview at our office in Westminster.
Senior Economist - Technology in City of Westminster employer: SHGH Group
Public First is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, where innovation meets collaboration. With a focus on meaningful projects in tech economics and public policy, employees benefit from extensive growth opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and the chance to engage with leading global organisations. Located in Westminster, our family-friendly environment supports a healthy work-life balance while encouraging international collaboration and travel.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Economist - Technology in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those who work at Public First or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their recent projects. Knowing the ins and outs of what they’ve done with Google or Sky will show you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your quantitative research skills! Brush up on economic modelling techniques and be ready to discuss how you can apply them to tech clients. Confidence in your expertise can really impress.
✨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 the team at Public First.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Economist - Technology in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your strong written communication skills in your application. We want to see how you can articulate complex ideas clearly, especially when it comes to tech economics and public policy.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! Tailor your application to reflect your experience with quantitative research and any relevant projects you've worked on. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs.
Be Genuine About Your Interests:Let us know why you're passionate about the impact of AI and emerging technologies on public policy. We appreciate candidates who are genuinely interested in these topics and can bring that enthusiasm to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website for the best chance of success! Follow the instructions carefully and submit your application before the deadline. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at SHGH Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in tech economics, especially around AI and data centres. Familiarise yourself with Public First's recent projects and how they relate to your expertise. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also in the company's mission.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with quantitative research and economic modelling. Be ready to provide specific examples of past projects where you've successfully applied these skills, particularly in a consulting environment. This will help demonstrate your fit for the Senior Economist role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, don't hesitate to ask insightful questions about the company's approach to policy design and impact measurement. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values and career goals.
✨Be Yourself
Public First values diversity and a family-friendly environment, so be authentic in your responses. Share your personal experiences and how they shape your perspective on public policy and technology. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a more personal level.
