Some key information Place of work will be either County Hall or the Firepool Centre for Digital Innovation (FCDI) in Taunton, with opportunities to remote work in line with Somerset Council’s Dynamic Working Strategy 30 days annual leave The postholder will perform a crucial role in leading the development and maintenance the evidence base that underpins economic development policy and interventions. Permanent contract Salary is £41,771 -£46,142 per annum for 37 hours/week What will I be doing? We’re working to improve the lives of the people in Somerset – and you’ll be a key part of that. Your day-to-day work will involve: Coordinating research, forecasting, and analysis activities to identify and illustrate economic trends within Somerset. Interpreting and translating complex data into actionable insights to support evidence-based policy and practice Commissiong specialist research and expertise, including forecasting and analysis activities, and interpreting and disseminating findings Working closely with team members across the Economic Prosperity service, as well as members, senior managers, and external partners, to provide specialist advice and information. Overseeing the activities and professional development of the team’s Economic Policy and Research Officer. What kind of experience or qualifications do I need? We offer ongoing support, training and guidance to help you be the best you can be. But it will really help if you: Have a degree in Economics or related field Understand economic theories, forecasting techniques, and econometric analysis. Have proven experience in economic research, managing projects and providing specialist advice Are proficient in data analysis tools and able to communicate complex information clearly Understand local and regional economic issues and policy development processes We’re proud to be here for the people of Somerset. And that means everyone in Somerset. An important part of this is ensuring that we are as diverse and inclusive as the people and communities we serve. We welcome applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to enrich our team. You can always contact the hiring manager for a chat if there’s anything you want to talk about before you apply. What's in it for me? We are proud to offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding, working as part of a team who are passionate about the work they do to improve the lives of people in Somerset. We offer great training and development opportunities, with supportive management. As well as this, we have some fantastic employee benefits available: We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements wherever possible, including working from home. Generous annual leave allowance, with the opportunity to purchase additional leave Staff discounts in gyms. Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee wellbeing services. Auto enrolment onto our generous Pension Scheme and optional pension enhancement through our Additional Voluntary Contribution scheme. A Flexible Benefits Scheme via salary sacrifice to obtain a cycle for work and health screenings. My Staff Shop offering discounts in shops, online shopping, restaurants, cinema tickets, insurance benefits and more Anything else I should know? Salary is £41,771 -£46,142 per annum for 37 hours/week. For an informal chat about the role, please contact: Dr James Gilgrist, james.gilgrist@somerset.gov.uk, 01823 3559339 When completing your application/CV please provide your full employment history and ensure that any gaps in employment are explained. Please start with your current or most recent employment. If you have everything you need, just hit the apply button. We can’t wait to hear from you.