Principal Analyst (Business & Economy) - Ref: SS00024

Principal Analyst - Business & Economy - Ref: SS00024Salary: G11 £46,464 - £51,515 per annumContract: Full time, permanent Senior Strategic Economic Intelligence Expert required to help shape the future of the Black Country and Regional Economies
The Economic Intelligence Unit (The EIU) is a standalone intelligence team hosted by Walsall Council.
We provide partners across the Midlands region with a first-class evidence base to inform better decision making. Some examples of our work includes: annual economic reviews, local labour market profiles, business sector and cluster analysis, intelligence briefings and economic impact assessments.
Our main clients include the four Black Country authorities, the West Midlands Combined Authority and the Midlands Engine.
The team consists of a unique, experienced, well-developed team of highly qualified and experienced economists and thematic and spatial analysts that have been instrumental in the region’s evidence base since 2002.
The EIU team operates primarily on a work from home basis with occasional in person meetings across the region.
An experienced and dynamic person is required to join this team and be instrumental in the team achieving its work programme. You will:-
Develop, collect, manipulate, analyse and strategically advise on regional research, information and intelligence, principally related to business and economy themes Analyse and manipulate data in Excel and using economic models and scenario analysis to inform evidence-based policy decision making for the region’s business base including deep dives into productivity, sectors, trade and investment and the macro-economy Strategically apply intelligence to inform the development of strategic programmes to implement local and regional priorities within the business / economy theme. Deliver business and economy intelligence-based outputs in a variety of formats including written reports, dashboards and presentations to local partners
Conduct additional research to fill data gaps - either by devising and carrying out a programme of research activity or leading on commissioning this from others. Support partners in the sharing and understanding of key local intelligence, especially related to the economy including the business environment, sectors, productivity and investment
Formulate and deliver the approach to measuring the economic and social impact of activity across the region and lead on economic evaluation and benefits realisation of significant projects and programmes
Carry out consultation and engagement with stakeholders, including partners, businesses and elected members. Generate income via ad hoc projects with partners leading on the business and economy projects. Communicate and provide effective, timely and fit for purpose responses to data and information requests received from funders / partners from different geographical levels
Develop, grow and maintain relationships with local / regional businesses, business groups and other partners; gathering information to inform the evidence collection and influencing policy activity process thought an evidence-based approach. Represent The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU), when required, at meetings with partners across the region liaising with other researchers and ensuring relevant information is communicated to the Director of The Economic Intelligence including deputising for the Director at Board meetings etc.
The post holder will have the following skills and expertise:
A degree or equivalent. Line manager experience Ability to undertake statistical analysis, including the interpretation of complex information from a range of sources and the synthesize of this into succinct presentable outputs. Outstanding analytical ability, including both knowledge of analytical and statistical techniques and broader problem solving skills. Interpreting national economic policy, legislation and guidance, and the potential local implications of these. In-depth knowledge of national data and information sources and their appropriate application and interpretation. Experience with data and intelligence analysis related to the business base, productivity, sectors, trade and investment and the macro-economy amongst other areas and the ability to inform evidence-based policy decision making in this thematic area. Competent in economic modelling / scenario setting. Supporting regional intelligence and policy development through the application of new models and methodologies. Experience with measuring the economic and social impact of activities including Treasury green book business case economic assessments and benefits realisation. Ability to communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders at all levels. Ability to work in and develop partnerships with colleagues from a range of external organisations. Flexible team player Enthusiastic and motivated
The post holder must be able to work on their own initiative, to adapt to a variety of tasks, to work to deadlines and to deliver a consistently high standard of work.
The post-holder will be based at home, with occasional travel into the Walsall Civic Centre for team meetings, and potential for travel across the Region for external meetings as required. Optional working space can also be provided in Birmingham city centre. View Job Description and Employee Specification Please note we will not be accepting applications from those who have applied for this role in our previous advert. Important note: When completing your online application form, you will be asked to enter supporting information. You must enter a detailed supporting information statement describing how your skills, abilities and experience meet the specific criteria included in the employee specification. If you do not include a supporting information statement, you will not be shortlisted. Please also ensure that you complete the work history and qualifications sections of your application form. Please do not add a CV as we do not accept them. Please see our Information for Applicants leaflet for further information. Closing Date: Monday 6 th May 2024. Interviews will be held online on Friday 10 th May 2024 This post is covered by the Government’s Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers. The post holder will be required to communicate verbally with customers and provide advice and/or information in accurate spoken English. For further reasons to join us, please visit:
#J-18808-Ljbffr