Lead Economist – 12 Month Fixed Term Contract in Leeds

Financial Conduct Authority – Lead Economist

We regulate financial services firms in the UK, to keep financial markets fair, thriving and effective. By joining us, you’ll play a key part in protecting consumers, driving economic growth, and shaping the future of UK financial services.

The Economics Division works closely with colleagues across the FCA to ensure high-quality analysis and effective choices across all aspects of FCA regulation.

We are seeking Lead Economists for the following roles

• Consumers and Growth (Consumers, Econometrics and Behavioural Unit)
• Growth Strategic Analysis (Strategic Economic Analysis – Growth and Markets Team)
• Horizon scanning and futures (Economic Strategy team)

Role Responsibilities

Consumers and Growth

• Shape the Future of Consumer Policy: Establish and coordinate a multi-year academic research programme, guiding internal and external studies to close evidence gaps and deliver insights that drive economic growth
• Build Influence and Collaboration: Lead engagement with industry, academia, and think tanks to share research, strengthen the FCA’s evidence base, and create a community that shapes policy and practice

Growth Strategic Analysis

• Shape Strategic Decisions: Guide economic analysis on policy choices and their impact on growth, influencing choices at the FCA’s most senior levels, including the Executive Committee and Board
• Champion Growth Across the FCA: Embed growth priorities by collaborating with analytical, policy, and operational teams to identify and drive actions that deliver measurable benefits
• Communicate and Inspire: Support the FCA’s Growth Strategy by contributing to speeches, parliamentary hearings, and major events, ensuring our vision is understood and acted upon internally and externally

Horizon Scanning and Futures

• Guide Futures Thinking: Guide the development and implementation of horizon scanning and scenario planning, ensuring our approach to future trends is rigorous, inclusive, and delivers real strategic benefits
• Anticipate Industry Shifts: Manage the FCA’s futures programme—tracking PESTLE trends, shaping strategic scenarios, and overseeing weak signals—to inform long-term regulatory decisions
• Embed Strategic Insight: Maximise the value of futures work by collaborating across Strategy, Policy, Competition, and Supervisory teams, making it a core driver of the FCA’s strategic approach

Location: London, Leeds, Edinburgh

Contract type: Contract, Fixed term

Profession: Economist, Lead

Working pattern: Flexible working, Hybrid

Closing Date: 15/01/2026

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Finance and Sales