As part of our new 2025–2030 strategy, we are seeking our first-ever Chief Economist to lead our research and advocacy efforts.
At We Foundation (Me-säätiö), we are dedicated to preventing social exclusion and segregation among children and youth. We lead with data–through our own direct, impact-driven community programmes, and through research and advocacy that influence systems, shape policies, funding, and interventions toward greater inclusion.
Our mission is to ensure that no child or young person—regardless of their background—is left behind. Guided by our new strategy, we identify andscale best practices that help Finland become a global benchmark in child and youth inclusion. We are building a society where every child and young person can engage in meaningful free-time activities that foster belonging and prevent social exclusion.
Chief Economist
This pioneering role is at the heart of our mission and central to our three strategic pillars: programme innovation, data-driven advocacy, and communications that inspire and drive change. This is a unique opportunity for an economist who wants to turn data into impact. The Chief Economist will provide strategic insights, lead and conduct high-impact research, and explore most effective ways to influence policies and funding.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead the foundation’s research agenda, focusing on social in/exclusion, funding, and impact.
- Lead our data-driven advocacy work, aligned with our strategy
- Engage with policymakers and government agencies to influence economic and social policies that affect children and youth at risk of social exclusion.
- Provide evidence-based recommendations that support our advocacy and programmatic work.
Collaborate with academic institutions and research organizations to advance knowledge and best practices in social inclusion.
- Develop impact assessments and economic models to measure the effectiveness of interventions and policies.
- Harness and develop our unique, multi-source impact database and AI tools to identify patterns, generate insights, and inform funding and policy decisions.
- Work closely with We Foundation’s communications to communicate complex economic concepts inaccessible ways to stakeholders, including the media, civil society, and the public.
- Represent the foundation at conferences, panels, and policy discussions to advocate for economic solutions that reduce social exclusion and segregation.
Who You Are
- A highly experienced economist with a strong background in social policy or a related field.
- A thought leader with a track record of producing influential insights that have driven policy change or programmatic impact.
- A strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively across sectors.
- Passionate about using economic insights to address social inequalities and advocate for systemic change.
- An excellent communicator who can translate complex economic data into actionable insights for diverse audiences.
- Aligned with our core values: long-term thinking, risk-taking, collaboration, and measurable impact.
- A team player with strong interpersonal skills and a genuine interest in working with a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
We especially welcome candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply.
Qualifications & Experience
- PhD or Master’s degree in Economics, Social Sciences, or a related discipline.
- At least 10 years of experience in research, policy analysis, or advocacy.
- Proven experience leading ambitious projects and driving change through research and data.
- Strong understanding of, and passion for, economic policies affecting children, youth, and marginalized communities.
- Demonstrated ability to engage with high-level stakeholders, including government officials, funders, and policymakers.
- Professional fluency in Finnish and English.
Why you’d love it with us
- Pioneer a unique role in Finland focused on economic advocacy for children and youth.
- Work with a small but bold, diverse, and collaborative team committed to making a lasting impact.
- Influence policy at local, national, and international levels to create a more inclusive society.
- Join a foundation that values long-term thinking, measurable action, and large-scale impact.
This is a permanent position with a competitive salary and benefits package, along with great opportunities for professional growth.
Interested?
Please submit a CV and a cover letter to careers@mesaatio.fi by May 5th 2025.