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

The Chief Economist Team (CET) sits at the heart of Ofwat's decision-making, providing economic leadership across the organisation and helping shape regulatory policy, major investment decisions and sector reform. Operating as an internal consultancy, the team works across competition, markets, innovation, environmental policy and regulatory change.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced economist to influence high-profile decisions, lead major projects and play a key role during a once-in-a-generation period for the sector.

The Role

As a Principal Economist, you'll lead complex economic and regulatory projects that support Ofwat's strategic priorities and help shape the future direction of the water sector.

Working across a broad portfolio of work, you'll provide economic advice, develop policy recommendations and work closely with colleagues across Ofwat, government and industry stakeholders.

You'll be trusted to take ownership of projects from inception through to delivery, providing independent challenge, evaluating proposals and driving high-quality outcomes. The role also includes supporting and developing Senior Associate and Graduate Economists.

What We're Looking For

We're seeking an economist who combines strong technical expertise with the ability to lead, influence and deliver.

Key requirements include:

• Significant knowledge of microeconomics and regulatory economics.
• Experience applying economic analysis within regulatory, competition or policy environments.
• A track record of owning and delivering complex economic projects.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Experience leading, mentoring or developing others.
• Excellent analytical, communication and problem-solving skills.
• A proactive approach and the confidence to challenge established thinking.
• Ambition to continue developing within a high-performing economics function.

Experience gained within a regulator, economic consultancy, regulated utility or infrastructure-focused organisation would be particularly relevant. Water sector experience is desirable but not essential.

Why Join?

This is a rare opportunity to join an organisation at one of the most important moments in its history.

You'll work on issues that directly influence future regulatory policy, investment decisions and customer outcomes, while gaining exposure to senior stakeholders across government, regulators and industry.

For economists looking to accelerate their careers, develop leadership experience and build a reputation within economic regulation, this role offers an exceptional platform to do so.

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.

Salary: £59,660 - £78,000 per annum

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.

Murray McIntosh is proud to be an equal opportunities employer on behalf of its clients. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability or age.

Murray McIntosh is a specialist Policy, Public Affairs, Strategic Communications and Economics recruitment consultancy, recruiting positions at all levels and across all sectors. Our team boasts over 20 years of experience in this space, with expertise spanning all industries and subject areas.