2026 UK Graduate Programme (London / Belfast)

Overview

2026 UK Graduate Programme (London / Belfast)

Oxford Economics is the world's foremost independent economic advisory firm. We enable intelligent and responsible decision-making through the provision of timely, data-driven economic and business insights and solutions our clients trust.

Our economists are experts at applying innovative economic models and research tools to provide valuable insights into essential business, financial, and policy issues. As a fast-growing, independent consultancy with a global reach, our goals are to provide outstanding analysis, forecasting and analytical tools for our clients, and challenging and rewarding careers for our staff.

We have an opportunity for exceptional economics graduates to join our teams in London and Belfast. This two-year scheme places successful candidates in six-month rotations, with opportunities across our teams including: Macro Forecasting; Economic Impact; Macro Consulting; Cities and Regions; Scenarios and Macro Modeling; Tourism Economics; and Economic Footprint & Sustainability. The rotating nature of this program, coupled with comprehensive on-the-job training, will allow you to gain in-depth practical knowledge and professional experience related to your academic and extracurricular background.

Responsibilities

As a Assistant Economist, you will be working closely with experienced economists and will be expected to take responsibility for your work from an early stage. You will contribute to Oxford Economics' services by working with our large global team of economists on a variety of projects, including forecasting, policy analysis and bespoke economic impact modelling. You will rotate between teams and have the opportunity to work on Oxford Economics' global macro, city and sectoral forecasts and prepare articles on topical economic issues; develop econometric forecasting tools; undertake 'what if' scenario analysis; or assist senior economists on a variety of consultancy projects.

• Apply your formal economics training to real world issues
• Interact confidently with clients and the media to explain your work
• Manage your time efficiently and balance several competing priorities
• Apply a range of analytical techniques and software packages to bring insight
• Write concisely and with impact on complex issues

Training Opportunities

Graduate Economists will have the opportunity to partake in a diverse range of training opportunities, including formal training sessions designed to support you in reaching your professional and personal development goals. You will be supported by comprehensive training on the unique technical and business skills needed to handle economics projects, forecasts, and research.

Other training helps you to hone your communication, project management, presentation, and advanced econometric and Excel skills. This training will be delivered via short courses, on-the-job training, and a group project.

Your first few weeks at Oxford Economics will include a carefully curated schedule of training with leading economists, HR professionals, marketing, and program alumni. You will learn more about the work of all of the teams across Oxford Economics and get practical training on topics such as:

• Using the Oxford Economics Global Economic Model
• Haver, Power BI and Tableau
• Econometrics applications
• Data tools
• Writing skills

The Working Environment

Although a large global organisation with more than 700 staff in total, we strive to retain the best features of our original start-up environment. We cultivate entrepreneurial thinking by supporting staff to pursue opportunities and map their own career paths. This means an informal but hard-working culture. We offer a hybrid working model for our graduates, with three days in the office and two days from home.

With more than 20 offices around the world, you will have the opportunity to explore your interests on a global scale. As well as working hard, we encourage employees to volunteer in the community. There are regular social events and staff parties, and more informal lunchtime and evening activities, often organised by individuals.

Requirements

Oxford Economics' graduate employment program is for high-achieving candidates with a passion for economics who want to apply their understanding of economics to real world issues. You must be able to put together logical economic arguments and explain them convincingly to economists and non-economists alike. You will need to be a fast learner with strong analytical skills and keen attention to detail. You should be comfortable meeting tight deadlines and working under your own initiative.

Successful candidates are highly numerate and have excellent technical skills. They work well with others, take responsibility for the quality and timeliness of their work, and demonstrate a creative approach to problem-solving. The ability to communicate clearly and concisely is essential, as is fluency in English.

We welcome applications from those who meet the following requirements:

• A degree in economics or a closely related subject, preferably at postgraduate level
• An excellent academic record
• Fluent English, both written and spoken
• A demonstrable interest in economics
• Some work experience, whether paid or voluntary (highly desirable)
• The right to work in the UK.
• We also consider applications from recent graduates with experience in academic research, the civil service, financial services, or consultancy.

Please submit a CV and covering letter in the application window.

In your covering letter please 1) list the three teams you would prefer to complete rotations with during the programme, and 2) whether you prefer to be based in London or Belfast.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting from Wednesday 24th September 2025, so we recommend submitting your application as soon as possible for consideration. We acknowledge all applications and will contact you by email if we wish to proceed with your candidacy.

Oxford Economics is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by the law.