Senior Economist

Alma Economics; Cardiff; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Hybrid/remote options

Job summary

Alma Economics seeks a Senior Economist to lead multiple projects, designing and applying innovative analytical approaches and mentoring a team of 1–3 economists. You will oversee day-to-day operations and guide their long-term development.

You will work in multi-disciplinary teams, be exposed to clients and partners, and interact with senior leadership across Tech, Commercial, and Communications to deliver impactful analyses.

Qualifications

• University-level degree in Economics, Econometrics, or related field (MSc or PhD a plus)
• Fluency in English – both written and oral; other languages a plus
• Experience in government, academia, consulting, or voluntary sector
• Experience in key policy areas we cover

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, development, and execution of projects.
• Manage project teams to ensure delivery of high-quality outputs.
• Develop research techniques and methodologies tailored to client needs.
• Collaborate with senior management to formulate strategies for project delivery, business development, and resource allocation.
• Engage and build relationships with stakeholders and clients.
• Foster a collaborative and effective team environment

Skills

Team leadership

Project management

Economics knowledge

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

MSc in Economics or related field

PhD a plus

Job description

Alma Economics combines unparalleled analytical expertise with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

We are a team of economists, social researchers, data scientists, developers and creatives working together on critical issues facing our society today. Our work spans multiple policy areas, including education, health and social care, housing and homelessness, the environment, public finance, and international development, among others.

Our diverse staff combine decades of experience in economic and social research at the highest levels with the ability to develop state-of-the-art tech tools and powerful communications.

We work with some of the most forward‑thinking organisations in the voluntary, public, and private sectors. Our clients include most UK government departments, the Welsh Government, the Scottish Government, councils across the country, arms‑length bodies, and several leading charities.

Internationally, we work with major supranational organisations including the World Bank, UNICEF, the WHO, the OECD, and the European Commission, as well as a number of national governments in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

What you will do

As a Senior Economist at Alma Economics, you will take the lead on multiple projects, by designing and applying innovative analytical approaches on a variety of topics. You will have direct line management responsibilities for a team of (typically) 1‑3 economists and provide guidance on the application of theory and techniques. You’ll be responsible for the effective day‑to‑day operation of your team and support their development and realisation of their long‑term goals.

You will be mentored by top experts in their field, helping develop your analysis, teamwork, and project‑management skills. You will work as part of multi‑disciplinary teams and be immediately exposed to clients and our partners. You will interact with our senior leadership, Tech, Commercial, and Communications teams, gaining exposure to a range of projects and interacting with professionals from diverse backgrounds.

Who we want to work with

Your technical economics abilities are exceptional, and you have strong project and stakeholder management skills. You excel at leading teams, enjoy working with others, and take active steps to support and develop your colleagues. You can explain complex ideas clearly and effectively.

You are always eager to learn and operate with integrity. As our work evolves, you'll have opportunities to expand your skills, satisfy your intellectual curiosity, and define your role in a dynamic environment.

At Alma, your ideas and ambition matter. Successful candidates will thrive in a fast‑paced workplace culture that values your contributions, with a continued focus on your professional growth and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, development, and execution of projects.
• Manage project teams to ensure delivery of high‑quality outputs that meet or exceed company standards.
• Develop research techniques and methodologies tailored to client needs and expectations.
• Collaborate with senior management to formulate strategies for project delivery, business development, and resource allocation.
• Engage and build relationships with stakeholders and clients.
• Foster a collaborative and effective team environment.

Requirements

• University‑level degree in Economics, Econometrics, or a related field (MSc or PhD is a plus, though not required; candidates' knowledge of economics and ability to apply it will be assessed during the interview process).
• Fluency in English – both written and oral (fluency in other languages - including Greek - is a plus, but not necessary).
• Previous work experience in government, academia, consulting, or the voluntary sector.
• Experience in one or more of the key policy areas we cover.

Working Arrangements

You will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the work we do from day one.

Alma Economics is a friendly and informal place, and our offices are designed for both work and play. Our team consists of enthusiastic and talented individuals, who love learning and are always ready to support others.

We do not have a one‑size‑fits‑all WfH policy. Most staff members work from home for one or two days during a typical week, while it is also possible to arrange to WfH for more extended periods (e.g., 2‑4 weeks) to visit family or travel.

While most staff work 5‑day weeks, for most full‑time positions we also offer the option of a 4‑day working week, either from day one or as an arrangement employees can transition into later in their Alma career.

Our offices can accommodate disabled access, and we are committed to providing all necessary support to colleagues who require it, but we are also happy to consider remote working arrangements for applicants with disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from working on‑site.