Over-50s now represent a rapidly growing share of the workforce and population. On the one hand many are economically inactive, contributing to nationwide talent shortages and reduced national productivity. On the other hand, those who do remain active are increasingly likely to work into their 70s. 

Should this be seen as a challenge or a good thing - and how does it play out for economists? What does a long, fulfilling career in economics look like? And how can economists continue to adapt, contribute, and find purpose as their careers evolve?

Join us for a live online webinar featuring a panel of highly experienced economists who have built diverse and impactful careers. They’ll share candid reflections on navigating career transitions, embracing uncertainty, and creating new opportunities beyond their original career path.

Meet our Speaker Panel

Alison Cottrell CB began her career as an economist in the City before moving to HM Treasury where she held a number of roles including Director of Financial Services. She was the founding CEO of the Financial Services Culture Board, established in the wake of the global financial crisis to help firms manage workplace culture. Alison holds Non-Executive Director roles at LINK (which operates the UK’s cash machine network) and at East London NHS Foundation Trust. She is also a Trustee of Phoenix Futures, a charity that supports people with problematic substance use.

Douglas McNeill OBE was Chief Economic Adviser to the Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, from 2022 to 2024 and now has a portfolio of advisory roles in macroeconomics and related fields. He was also an adviser to Prime Ministers Theresa May and Boris Johnson (2016-20) and to Mr Sunak as Chancellor of the Exchequer (2020-22).  His work in government included fiscal policy, trade and international economic relations and encompassed eight Budgets, seven Spring/Autumn Statements, and three general election campaigns, along with G20 summits, IMF meetings and FTA negotiations. Before moving into government, Douglas spent 20 years in the financial markets in London and Milan, most recently with Australian bank Macquarie, and was head of economic affairs at the Conservative Research Department when the party was in opposition. 

Amanda Rowlatt CBE was a departmental Chief Economist and Chief Analyst in the UK government until 2024. She is now the Vice Chair of CNWL NHS Trust, a trustee of NIESR and ODI Global think tanks, a member of the Jersey Fiscal Policy Panel, and a Senior Adviser for Frontier Economics. 

The panel will be chaired by Adam Bryan, Dive to Thrive. Adam is an executive coach with senior leadership experience across corporate, consultancy, and not-for-profit sectors, including the Royal Economic Society. He has worked with Boards and executive teams to shape strategy, launch new ventures, and secure major partnerships. His current work focuses on professionals over 50, helping them navigate career change and extension with confidence so they can continue to thrive, support the next generation and leave a lasting professional legacy.

HOW TO REGISTER

Pre-event registration is required.

Members can register via the SPE notices. Non-members interested in attending for a ‘taster’ session should email office@spe.org.uk