Senior Analyst Economic Development

About the role

Nelson City Council is looking for a commercially minded and analytically driven Senior Analyst Economic Development, reporting to the Manager Economic Development. The role provides the economic analysis, modelling and commercial insight behind Council's investment, funding and partnership decisions, evaluating business cases, funding proposals and economic development initiatives so they are evidence-based and deliver value to the Nelson community.

Key responsibilities

• Evaluate business cases, investment proposals and partnership opportunities using robust economic and commercial analysis.
• Undertake cost-benefit assessments and option analysis to support strategic decision making.
• Translate complex economic, demographic and sector data into clear recommendations for senior leaders and elected members.
• Assess the effectiveness, economic impact and value for money of Council programmes and investments.
• Develop and maintain Nelson's economic intelligence base, including economic indicators, productivity trends and sector performance insights.
• Lead economic impact analysis of events and funding proposals.
• Establish performance frameworks and success measures to monitor the effectiveness of economic development initiatives.

Required profile

• A relevant tertiary qualification in economics, finance, data analytics or a related discipline.
• Proven experience developing business cases, undertaking cost-benefit analysis and evaluating investment options.
• Experience analysing regional economies, industry sectors, productivity trends and growth opportunities.
• Ability to provide independent advice and present findings to senior stakeholders and decision makers.

Required skills

• Advanced analytical capability with experience working across complex economic and demographic datasets.
• Strong commercial acumen and critical evaluation of investment opportunities and funding proposals.
• Exceptional communication skills, able to turn complex analysis into clear, compelling insights.