Role Purpose
As a Principal Economist, you will lead the delivery of complex economic research and consultancy projects, provide strategic advice to clients, and contribute to the growth of our economics team. You will work at the interface of science, policy, and economics, helping clients make informed decisions on land use, food systems, biodiversity, and climate resilience. This role combines technical leadership, strategic client engagement, and mentoring of junior colleagues to support environmental stewardship and the development of sustainable agricultural systems. The role is ideal for a dynamic, forward-thinking professional who thrives on intellectual challenge, leadership, and making a measurable difference in society.
Key Responsibilities
1. Technical Leadership and Delivery
2. Strategic Business Development
3. Project and Contract Management
4. People Development & Mentoring
5. Cross-Group Collaboration
Essential Criteria
6. Postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Environmental Economics, or a related field.
7. Minimum of 10 years’ experience in applied economic analysis, with a strong focus on agricultural and environmental policy.
8. Proven track record of delivering consultancy or research projects for public or private sector clients.
9. Strong understanding of UK and EU agricultural and environmental policy landscapes.
10. Proficiency in economic evaluation methods (e.g., cost-benefit analysis, impact assessments, econometrics).
11. Excellent communication skills, including report writing, client presentations, and stakeholder engagement.
12. Commercial awareness and experience in winning and managing consultancy contracts.
Desirable Criteria
13. Experience working with or for UK government departments (e.g., Defra, Natural England, DESNZ, Environment Agency).
14. Familiarity with natural capital accounting, ecosystem services valuation, or climate economics.
15. Experience integrating economic and environmental data, including spatial analysis or GIS.
16. Ability to work across disciplines and manage multi-partner projects.
Salary and Benefits
17. Competitive salary commensurate with experience
18. Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements
19. Life assurance
20. A flexible benefits programme including the option to buy additional holidays, health cash plan and discounted gym membership
21. We encourage Continuing Professional Development and support Chartership to relevant professional bodies.
22. Volunteer days allowing staff to support local good causes and environmental activities.
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#Economist #Agriculture #EnvironmentalScience