Senior Economist

In the lead-up to the creation of the Australian Retail Council, which is to be formed through the amalgamation of the ARA and NRA, we're on the search for a Senior Economist for the organisation.

This newly established Senior Economist position will play a strategic and hands-on role in delivering high-impact, original economic analysis to shape and elevate the economic narrative around the retail sector's contribution to the Australian economy.

The role will work in partnership with the also newly established Chief Policy Officer & Chief Economist, and alongside members of the policy team, in framing an agenda that responds to the highest order policy and economic priorities for Australia. It will provide analysis around key sectoral issues – including technological disruption, international competition, supply chain resilience and disruption, regulatory burden, workforce pressures, sustainability, retail crime and consumer dynamics – to elevate ARC's input to national economic and policy debates.

The role includes carriage for developing compelling economic insights and helping steer a program of evidence-based research. It is anticipated the role will bring to life existing third-party analysis but also develop proprietary tools for better capturing and communicating the value of the sector to a wide range of audiences, including the government, media, members, partners, industry stakeholders and the broader Australian community.

The position will provide regular presentations and reports to Members on the state of the retail economy. It will also have significant interaction with the CEO, Chief Industry Engagement Officer and Principal Media Advisor.

About the Role

This role is a significant growth opportunity to elevate your skills, build networks and above all, lift understanding of the retail community.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Lead economic analysis and forecasting on retail trade, consumer spending, labour markets, and macroeconomic trends
• Assess the economic impacts of regulations, taxation, and policy changes affecting the retail sector
• Prepare economic impact assessments and contribute to major policy submissions, including the national wage case and federal budget
• Monitor and interpret key economic data from ABS, RBA, Treasury, and other relevant sources
• Design, implement, and analyse member surveys to gather industry intelligence
• Manage original research projects and data collection initiatives to support advocacy and strategy
• Provide economic insights to inform ARC's strategic planning and policy agenda
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, industry groups, community stakeholders, and ARC members to inform economic analysis and advocacy.
• Represent ARC publicly at forums, events, and on social media, while providing tailored economic and policy briefings to members and partners.
• Collaborate with Marketing & Partnerships to develop economic reports, data visualisations, and targeted content for key audiences.

About You

• Proven experience in economics, preferably with an industry body, think tank, consultancy and/or government
• Skilled in stakeholder relationship management, especially in respect of Australia's pre-eminent economic agencies
• Strong analytical and research skills, including proficiency in relevant quantitative software and data tools
• Expertise in economic analysis, including familiarity with input-output tables and CGE models
• Capacity to synthesize complex information
• A strong communicator – able to articulate and present persuasively in internal and external forums, including an ability to convey complex ideas to non-technical audiences
• An understanding of the Australian media landscape
• Skilled in project management

About Us

The Australian Retail Council will be formed through the amalgamation of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA). It will represent a $430 billion sector that employs 1.4 million Australians, making it the largest private sector employer in the country.

We promote flexible working arrangements for all employees which allows balancing working from home and working from our offices.

We encourage all applicants, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Australian South Sea Islander people, people with disability, LGBTIQ and culturally diverse candidates to apply.

To Apply:

If you are interested in joining a highly respected membership organisation that values respect, integrity, collaboration, accountability, and a focus on excellence, please apply.

Please submit your CV and a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria.