Economist and Insights Manager in Dumfries

Are you an economist with an aptitude for turning complex data into organisational insights? Do you have hands-on experience driving economic research and evaluation? We’re looking for a confident communicator who can help shape intelligence-led decision-making.

Join SOSE and be part of a high-performing team that’s working to build a better future for the South of Scotland.

About us

South of Scotland Enterprise (also known as SOSE) is the dedicated Economic Development Agency for the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway. We were established by the Scottish Government and represent a fresh approach to driving growth across a very special region in a way that benefits all. We are the first of Scotland’s public agencies to promote a wider view of the economy and how it impacts all we do. Jobs, businesses, communities and the environment are all equally important to us. We want to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to fulfil their ambitions, no matter who or where they are.

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you will lead the creation, analysis and communication of economic insights for SOSE, transforming data into meaningful intelligence that informs organisational decisions and evidences impact across the South of Scotland. You’ll coordinate research, forecasting and analysis activities, helping to shape strategic planning and strengthen SOSE’s evidence base. You will also manage a small team, providing clear direction, support and quality assurance across insight and research activities. You will collaborate widely across SOSE and with external bodies—such as Scottish Government, local authorities, SE, HIE and academic partners—to build aligned, high-quality economic approaches. As the lead advisor on economic matters, you’ll guide senior leaders, manage regional intelligence-gathering activity, develop baseline datasets, and identify gaps in evidence. You’ll also take forward research opportunities, oversee surveys and business panels, and contribute to SOSE’s Regional Intelligence Hub. Alongside delivering research and analysis, you’ll manage resources effectively, support colleagues with economic evaluation and assessments, and ensure data is presented clearly to diverse audiences. This role is central to driving SOSE’s intelligence-led approach and strengthening understanding of the region’s economy, challenges and opportunities.

The skills you’ll need

You’ll need strong analytical skills and confidence in working with large qualitative and quantitative economic datasets. Crucially you’ll have the skills and experience to turn that raw data into valuable organisational insights. Excellent communication and collaboration skills are also key, as you’ll work with colleagues and external partners to present findings, support evaluations, and inform decision-making. Proficiency with data visualisation tools like Power BI, Excel and Microsoft 365 is essential. The successful candidate will have a proactive, creative approach to problem-solving with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

What we offer

We offer a competitive and varied reward package, designed to cover your wellbeing, your lifestyle, your working life and your future, including 43 days holiday annually and a generous pension contribution. Our salary ranges are designed to be competitive, and new entrants will normally start on the minimum of the pay range, except in exceptional circumstances. We want to make sure that what we offer allows you to cultivate a healthy work/life balance.

At South of Scotland Enterprise, we celebrate and support differences. We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to offering equal employment opportunities regardless of race, colour, ancestral heritage, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity and expression, or veteran status. If you need any adjustments to support your application, such as information in alternative formats or special requirements to access our buildings, or if you’re eligible under The Disability Confident Scheme please contact us and we’ll do all we can to support you.

We operate a hybrid working model balancing working from home with attendance at the office to meet the needs of our employees, our teams and our clients. This role is full time and permanent, although we will consider alternative working patterns. If you are an Inclusive, Responsible and Bold individual who is always Striving for success and believe you have something to offer the South of Scotland then we would love to hear from you.