Associate Adviser, Economics Research

**A great place to work. With great work to do.**

**Mo te Turanga** **| About The Role**

The Associate Adviser role sits within our Research and Insights function, working with economists, researchers, data scientists, and intelligence professionals from a range of different backgrounds.

You will assist in the delivery of economic analysis and research to help the FMA make good decisions. A substantial part of your work will be empirical research so you'll need some background in data analysis, ideally with some coding experience. You'll need to able to think critically about a range of data and information sources, and how we can use them to gain insights into the key questions that our front-line teams are facing. You'll also have opportunities to explore different research approaches, from synthesis of the international literature through to survey design and qualitative interviews.

Your work will directly contribute to the development of fair, efficient, and transparent financial markets - great purposeful work and the perfect environment to keep learning.

**What does a day in the life of an Associate Adviser look like?**

As our associate, day to day you will get involved in supporting both long-term and short-term economic research projects that the team has on the go. You could be working to help us understand important issues like the implications of commission structures for financial advisers and brokers, whether banks offer similar terms to all their customers, or whether the changing structure of international markets is putting New Zealand investors at undue risk.

You'll need to use your ingenuity as we find innovative ways to answer these questions. That might include seeking out new data sources, engaging with other FMA staff and with the businesses we regulate, or synthesizing the international research on a particular topic.

You won't be alone in this journey. You'll have the support of experienced researchers who can help guide you through, and a cohort of recent graduates you can tap into to help you adapt to your new workplace.

**What is the most exciting thing about this opportunity?**

This role will offer you the perfect opportunity to gain valuable insight into the regulatory environment for financial services, building industry knowledge, practical skills, and career opportunities for both public and private sector roles. You'll work on a wide range of topics across the financial sector, helping you to discover which areas interest you most for your future career growth. You will also get the chance to prepare, present, and publish novel research through our Occasional Paper series, building your skills and reputation for high quality analysis.

**What attributes will this person have in order to be successful?**

For us, your desire to understand how things fit together, your appetite to learn, and your inquisitive nature will be key. We're looking for someone who is motivated to improve outcomes for New Zealand investors and consumers by helping the FMA understand the changing context, challenges, and opportunities that are affecting financial services markets.

Exposure to economic analysis and research from within a policy, regulatory or financial services environment would be an advantage.

**We welcome your unique & diverse skills and experience, recognising we are all on a personal journey in our careers. We don't need you to have prior experience in all aspects of the role. If this opportunity excites you, we encourage you to apply.**

**Ng painga | What we offer**

We offer some great benefits including a 4% KiwiSaver contribution, health and life insurance cover, paid leave over the Christmas period, a generous $1,500 refer a friend bonus, as well as an ability to swap public holiday leave with other days that mean more to you. Additionally, we have exceptional learning and development opportunities including access to leadership development, technical training, and external coaching.

At the FMA we're committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic self to work each day. We offer a range of wellness and social activities designed to support our people with aspects of their personal and professional lives and genuinely connect with their colleagues.

**About Te Mana T tai Hokohoko (FMA)**

Ours is a meaningful and impactful role, as a kaitiaki of the financial services in Aotearoa. We oversee a market that does right by everyone, ensuring better outcomes for all New Zealanders. Our role as a kaitiaki is brought to life by our values; Look to the Horizon, Help the Team Work, Make the Calls and Open Hearts, Open Minds.

**Me pehea te tuku tono | How to apply