Job Purpose
To undertake economic analysis to increase the business’ understanding of the competitive dynamics of the markets in which it operates. The role involves developing compelling evidence-based cases to:
i. ensure that Royal Mail can make full use of the commercial freedoms it has while complying with ex ante and ex post competition requirements.
ii. defend against competition investigations and/or regulatory disputes; and
iii. advocate for any regulatory changes required by the business and undertake pro-active analysis of the markets in which Royal Mail operates
The role will also involve drafting responses to regulatory reviews and consultations and undertaking pricing tests.
Reports to: Head of Competition Policy
Grade: Band 9
Number of roles: 1
Key accountabilities
- Draft responses to Ofcom consultations as required. This will include supporting Royal Mail in engaging and lobbying Ofcom on regulatory reform. It will also include preparation of internal presentations and documents that clearly articulate the regulatory perspective on commercial decisions. There will also be responsibility for specific work strands e.g. on price controls and affordability.
- Undertake margin squeeze assessment and market analysis to support commercial pricing decisions as well as any investigations that may arise.
- Take responsibility for USPA6 (margin squeeze test) submission to Ofcom each quarter, ensuring all submissions are accurate, timely and all relevant internal stakeholders are engaged and sign-offs obtained
- Development of market intelligence on the dynamics of mail markets to enable the business to analyse the extent of competitive constraints in its products.
- Engage with senior executives and explain economic concepts to them in a concise and non-technical manner.
- Provide other ad hoc competition and regulatory analysis and support as required.
Key knowledge, skills, experience and qualifications required
- Minimum of a first degree in Economics or a related discipline (Postgrad in Economics related degree desirable) and excellent ability in applying economics in a commercial setting.
- Excellent knowledge of regulatory and/or competition economics and its application in the UK (knowledge of sector regulation desirable) gained either through working with UK economic regulators or competition authorities.
- Proven experience of working on economic analysis in a regulated industry and/or on competition investigations
- Excellent numerical and analytical skills. Capable of identifying the relevant financial information required, analysing it and providing succinct analysis.
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal. Experience of presenting complex analysis and recommendations to non-technical audiences.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills and ability to build effective working relationships at all levels of the organization
- Ability to drive work forward independently.
- Ability to work in a changing environment and to tight deadlines
Location: Hybrid working
185 Faringdon Road, London for 2-3 days per week and working from home
