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Why did you pursue a career in economics, and your particular field?
My career started as a note inspector at the Central Bank of Jamaica. It was a summer job during my sixth form years. My interest in economics grew as it seemed to me that economics was the ‘go to’ discipline that provided answers to all of life’s questions. Years later – my opinion remains unchanged! I began my economist journey as a macroeconomist then morphed into a competition economist when I sat on the Competition Appeals Tribunal. I remain micro-focused as impact assessments increasingly dominate the work I do.
What real life economic impact have you had with your work?
The Law Commission makes recommendations on ways to reform UK law to make it more effective. Impact assessments play a critical role providing an evidence based narrative on the potential benefits and implementation costs of different options. The ability to demonstrate our added value owes much to the impact assessment providing monetised evidence. Most recently the reform of sentencing guidelines, amongst other benefits, was estimated to deliver efficiency savings of some £255 million over 10 years and help stop unlawful sentences.
What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
Getting legal staff buy-in through a cultural shift was very challenging. Impact assessments require a ‘best estimate’ when there are evidence gaps. The level of uncertainty lay outside the lawyer comfort-zone. It was a matter of us learning to trust each other to arrive at an assessment which struck the right balance providing an informed view on outcome even when there was incomplete information. It helped that our impact assessments assisted with implementation by the referencing department and that we are really good use of public money.
What is your current assessment of diversity in economics? Has this changed from when you first started?
For many years I volunteered as an assessor with the Economic Assessment Centre [EAC]. I have first hand experience of the difference it makes when someone that looks like you is on the other side of the table. I do not believe there is enough diversity. Ten plus years on I can still go to economist events and easily count the limited number of BAME staff.
What advice would you give to black female economists looking to progress in the field?
Get a mentor – get several mentors that speak to different parts requiring stretching. Don’t be afraid to offer reverse mentoring to your line manager. Always room for improvement! Volunteer on EAC to give candidates confidence during the daunting interview process.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!
I come from a family of foodies! We love to experiment with baked products in particular and put our spin on things. About 4 years ago I applied for a food handlers’ permit. As ‘Hepburns’, named in memory of my father, I am licensed to provide Caribbean inspired buns [with a walnut twist].
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