Lead Economist – 12 Month Fixed Term Contract

Requirements of the role

About the FCA and team 

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 is formed by a vibrant mix of backgrounds and 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

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