Senior Economist

Now-Casting Economics Ltd
London - United Kingdom
S: Depending on qualification

Now-Casting Economics is a research-based company whose double aim is to commercialize high-frequency macroeconomic nowcasts while pushing the frontier forward in developing continuous advancements of the econometric models in use. Founded in 2011, it is led by a group of academics, among which Prof. Domenico Giannone and Prof. Lucrezia Reichlin, who were pioneers in the research on nowcasting and remain at the forefront of academic research in this field; earlier, more simplified versions of the model they developed, and that is currently in use at Now-Casting Economics, are still at the core of the forecasting toolset of the major economic institutions worldwide, including the FRB and the ECB.
The company has established an infrastructure on which its models run automatically and continuously, generating forecasts which are delivered automatically to the company's clients. A continuing research effort is directed at applying the models to additional countries. In parallel, the company is also engaged in research on new versions of the model and on different ways in which this overall technique can be applied. Further information is available at www.now-casting.com

Role and responsibilities
Now-Casting Economics is looking to recruit a full-time Senior Economist for its macroeconomic forecasting team. The successful candidate is expected to play a central role in the production of country forecasts and actively contribute to the overall research activity of the team. This includes maintenance and development of the country models, periodic re-estimations and model evaluations, coordination of research projects, supervision of research assistants and young researchers, interaction with potential and existing clients. As a Senior Economist you are encouraged to maintain links with academic institutions and to build your profile within the profession; you are expected to engage in active academic research in the field of now/forecasting, draft research papers, participate to conferences and seminars. The post holder will also be involved in 'commercially directed' research aimed at identifying potential future extension of the model and services that Now-Casting Economics offers to its customers.

The Senior Economist is expected to co-operate on a day-to-day basis with the CEO of Now-Casting Economics and is directly answerable to the Now-Casting Research Committee, chaired by Prof. Lucrezia Reichlin. All research projects are agreed in advance with the research committee, which will also monitor progress.

As a Senior Economist you will be based in the company's main office, located in Somerset House, London, where you are expected to spend most of your working time. Now-Casting Economics operates within a flexible working hours environment.

The role is incompatible with full or part-time paid employment for any other employer. However, we also have the possibility of part-time work for people with similar skills and experience. We would be happy to consider candidates for either or both positions.

Experience and qualifications
Candidates for this role will have strong academic qualifications, including a Ph.D. in economics/econometrics, and significant post-doctoral experience in a relevant field – either in an academic institution or in a central bank or other policy related organization. You will be expected to have excellent applied econometrics skills, previous experience of now/forecasting, proficiency in the use of technical software (i.e. MatLab or, equivalently, R, Gauss, ...), excellent communication skills, proven English proficiency (both spoken and written), ability to work with tight deadlines and to work effectively within a team. Previous knowledge of Dynamic Factor Models will be considered an advantage.
Now-Casting Economics offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications. A research budget to cover for conference-related expenses is also provided.

To apply
All candidates are requested to submit a full CV, a letter of recommendation from an academic supervisor, and a cover letter explaining their reasons for applying for the position.
The deadline for applications is Wednesday, 17th December, 2014
Applications should be sent by email or post to:
Jasper McMahon
CEO, Now-Casting Economics Ltd
Somerset House
Strand
London WC2R 1LA
jobs@now-casting.com

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