Murray McIntosh are proud to have partnered with Ofwat to lead the search for Economists within the Chief Economist Team.

Overview

The water sector is entering a transformative period, and Ofwat is at the centre of shaping what comes next.

Ofwat's Chief Economist Team (CET) sits at the heart of the organisation's decision-making. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the team provides economic leadership across Ofwat, helping shape regulatory policy, challenge major investment decisions and contribute to some of the most important strategic programmes in the sector.

We're seeking a Senior Associate Economist to join this highly regarded team. This is an opportunity to work on major regulatory, economic and policy challenges during a period of significant sector reform, whilst building your expertise alongside experienced economists and senior stakeholders.

The Role

You'll support the delivery of high-profile economic and regulatory projects, helping shape policy decisions and contributing to issues that directly impact customers, investors and the environment.

Working alongside Principal Economists and senior stakeholders, you'll provide economic analysis, support regulatory policy development, contribute to impact assessments and work across a diverse range of projects. The team operates as an internal consultancy, providing exposure to a breadth of work that is difficult to find elsewhere.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to broaden their experience, take ownership of meaningful workstreams and develop towards a future Principal Economist position.

What We're Looking For

• Typically 3+ years' experience within economic consulting, regulation or a similar analytical environment.
• Experience working within regulated sectors such as water, energy, telecoms, transport or wider infrastructure markets.
• Strong academic credentials, whether at Bachelor's, Master's or PhD level.
• Knowledge or experience of microeconomics would be beneficial but is not a prerequisite.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.
• The ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and contribute to complex projects.
• Ambition to develop a long-term career within economic regulation.

Candidates from economic consultancies, regulated utilities, public sector organisations and wider infrastructure sectors are likely to be particularly relevant.

Whilst strong academics are important, we're particularly interested in economists who can demonstrate how they've applied economic thinking in a commercial, consulting or regulatory environment. We welcome applications from candidates with a range of economic backgrounds, including those whose experience extends beyond pure microeconomic analysis.

Why Join?

This is a rare opportunity to join a highly regarded economics function during one of the most significant periods of change in the sector's history.

You'll gain exposure to senior stakeholders across government, regulators and industry, working on projects that directly influence future regulatory policy and investment decisions.

The breadth of work available within the Chief Economist Team is difficult to find elsewhere, offering opportunities to develop expertise across economic regulation, policy development, market design, competition and sector reform.

For economists looking to accelerate their careers and build towards future leadership positions, this role provides an exceptional development platform.

Additional Information & How to Apply

This role can be based in either Birmingham (B5 4UA) or London (E14 4HD) and operates on a hybrid working model.

Full UK right to work required. Sponsorship is not available.

AI-Assisted Applications: You may use AI tools to support your application, but all information submitted must be accurate and reflect your own experience. Applications containing misleading or plagiarised content may be withdrawn.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Ofwat is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the people and communities it serves. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.