Deputy Principal Economist

The Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) Economist Profession has enjoyed a prolonged period of significant growth. It now consists of over 140 Economists providing valued professional economic services right across Northern Ireland government. Economists within the Profession engage in a wide variety of important work areas including advising on investment decisions, undertaking and managing research and evaluation, undertaking qualitative and quantitative analysis to develop and shape policy, economic impact assessments, delivering utility regulation and price control and providing briefing, advice and commentary on the economy and economic issues to Executive Ministers and Senior Officials.More than ever, the analytical skills of Economists are central to supporting good decision making. With increasingly tight budgets, ongoing public sector reform, increasing demands for public services and the challenging global outlook, robust economic analysis and advice is central to good policy making. It is certainly a time of great change and opportunity. We are keen to continue to build on the Profession’s strong reputation for objectivity and rigour and welcome into the Profession individuals who share these core values.The work of Deputy Economists depends on where they are posted. Individuals will be expected to demonstrate and maintain an up-to-date understanding of current economic issues and topics. While the precise duties and responsibilities of individual posts will vary..

Applicants must, by the closing date for applications:1. Be in possession of at least a second-class honours degree with Economics as a major component;

AND2. Have at least 2 years experience, gained within the last 10 years, in undertaking economic research and analysis, post qualification (Please refer to the Candidate Information Booklet).

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In addition, applicants should be aware that, should it be necessary to shortlist candidates to go forward to interview, the panel will carry out an objective evaluation of the breadth and depth of information provided by candidates.