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Careers in the Government Economic Service
| Careers in the Government Economic Service |
Think economics is just theory? Think again. At the Government Economic Service (GES), we're the UK's largest recruiter of economists, with over 3,500 members working across more than 70 government departments nationwide. We turn economic theory into real-world impact.
What could you be working on?
Imagine analysing data that shapes government policy, preparing briefings that go straight to ministers, or researching solutions to challenges like climate change, housing, productivity or economic inequality. Our economists have been at the heart of responding to major events like Covid-19 and supporting communities through economic uncertainty. Your work here doesn't just build your CV; it genuinely makes a difference to millions of people's lives.
Why work for us?
- Real responsibility: from day one you'll be contributing to policies that matter
- Diverse experience: our economists work across the entire span of government, and can be found working in departments from HM Treasury to Natural England
- Locations across the UK
- Flexible working: we understand that work-life balance matters
- 25 days holiday plus public holidays: because everyone needs downtime
- Inclusive environment: we celebrate diverse perspectives because they make our analysis better
- Professional development: join a community of over 3,500 economists with ongoing training, learning and networking
How to join the Government Economic Service
If you are interested in a career in government economics, there are several ways you can join the Government Economic Service. We run annual recruitment schemes for people at different stages of their career journey, from school leavers to experienced economists. Here is an overview of the schemes we run:
For economics undergraduate students
Summer Placements (6-12 weeks): perfect if you're in your penultimate year of undergraduate study and want to test-drive a government career. You'll earn a salary over your summer holiday, while getting hands-on experience that many of our permanent staff say was "life changing."
Sandwich Placements (up to a year): take a full year out from your undergraduate studies to dive deep into government economics. The best part? If you successfully complete your placement, you’ll get an early access interview for a permanent role when you graduate, and many of our sandwich students come back to work with us.
For economics graduates
Assistant Economist Graduate Scheme: As an Assistant Economist in government, you'll collaborate on solutions to today's most pressing public policy challenges. You could be developing insightful analysis, exploring data patterns, sharing advice on policy options, and preparing essential briefings for ministers.
There is also the Government Economic Service Scheme which is part of the Civil Service Fast Stream programme.
For those without an economics degree
Degree level apprenticeship programme (usually 4 years): if you're curious about how the world works, enjoy problem-solving, or want to understand the "why" behind government decisions, economics might be your perfect fit. Our degree apprenticeship programme offers a fee-free Economics degree from the University of Kent alongside working in a government department. This scheme allows you to earn whilst you learn. No economics experience is necessary, just a desire to learn!
Hear from our economists
Diversity, inclusion and community
At the Government Economic Service (GES), we believe that diverse perspectives lead to stronger analysis and better outcomes for the communities we serve. We are committed to building a more inclusive and representative profession -one that reflects the society we work for, while upholding the Civil Service values of integrity, honesty, objectivity and impartiality.
As the UK’s largest recruiter of economists, we recognise our responsibility to attract talent from all backgrounds. We actively work to remove barriers so that your background is never a limitation. We value the unique experiences and viewpoints that individuals bring, knowing they enrich policymaking and improve public service delivery.
One of the great benefits of working for the GES is our range of professional networks. As part of our community of over 3,500 economists, these networks offer a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and professional development. They are also an excellent way to expand your professional horizons and connect with like-minded colleagues who share your interests and experiences.
Our networks prioritise inclusion and were set up to ensure diverse communities are represented within the economics profession and include:
- Women in Economics Network
- Black Analyst Forum
- GES West Country Network
- Digital Economics Network
- Cross-Gov Junior Economist Network
- GES Book Club
Beyond these networks, you will have access to our comprehensive range of learning and development programmes, designed to help you develop your career in government. From lunchtime seminars and weekly newsletters to annual conferences and ongoing continuous professional development opportunities, you will be joining an inclusive community of learning where different views, backgrounds and experiences are genuinely welcomed.
We are committed to supporting careers across the UK, with opportunities available in locations from London to Edinburgh, Birmingham to Cardiff. This reflects our belief that excellent economists can be found everywhere, and that diverse geographic representation strengthens our profession.
If you have any questions about our recruitment schemes, you can contact us on gesrrecruitment@hmtreasury.gov.uk. You can also keep up-to-date with Government Economic Service news and updates by following us on social media.
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