Senior Economist – Labour Markets and Social Security

NEF are looking for a talented Senior Economist to lead policy and research work on social policy issues, with a particular focus on labour markets, social security, and incomes.

In this role, you would conduct research and advocacy on labour markets, and help NEF to make the case for an adequate and supportive social security system, both to reduce poverty but also to improve conditions in the labour market and help more people into good jobs. Alongside this, you will also support with wider work on housing and public services.

This role will manage an exciting programme of work at a critical time. You will use your outstanding technical expertise and project management experience to design and deliver quality, cutting-edge research capable of winning changes in policy and public opinion.

You will be a passionate champion of our work – influencing policy and decision makers in government, the civil service political parties, as well as civil society organisations and media who are shaping the debate. This will be a fantastic opportunity for someone who can demonstrate progressively senior responsibility and impact in an economist role, and who is looking for their next challenge.

You will bring outstanding technical skills and subject knowledge, as well as a good understanding of how to effect changes in policy and practice. You will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, and be an effective project manager, line manager and fundraiser.

Role: Senior Economist – Labour Markets and Social Security
Hours of work: Full Time (32 hours per week under NEF’s Shorter Working Week)
Salary: £54,470 - £60,480
Location: London (in-office minimum two days per week)
Contract type: Permanent

How to apply

Deadline for applications: midnight, 14th June 2026
Interviews:  First stage interviews 25th June with second stage in person interviews on the 7th July

Start date: ASAP

Please send your CV (no longer than two pages) and covering letter (no longer than two pages) outlining how you meet the person specification in Word format.

Please also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form.

You must be eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to sponsor visas.

Inclusivity at NEF:

NEF wants to be an inclusive workplace with a diverse body of staff. We don’t want to conform to the traditional think-tank model where people from certain backgrounds are hugely under-represented. We know we have some way to go in this and are therefore genuinely keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; women; neurodivergent people; disabled people; people who identify as LGBT+; people with experience of mental health problems; and people who identify as working class or have done so in the past.

Accessibility and Equal Opportunity:

We value all candidates and are committed to equal opportunity. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application process, or would like information in an alternative format, please let us know.

We actively promote positive action to advance fairness and tackle underrepresentation within our workforce.