When you’re passionate about what you do and where you work, the rest comes easy. That’s the culture at Central 1 Credit Union, and that’s precisely what we’re looking for from you. Supporting nearly 150 member credit unions across British Columbia and Ontario, we’re the backbone of the credit union system in both provinces – taking care of everything from online services and product development, to payment processing, trade association services and more.

Our team of over 600 employees represent some of the most innovative, passionate individuals you’ll ever meet; people who honestly care about the organization, its members and each other. In other words, people who love what they do.

The Regional Economist is responsible for conducting and preparing economic analysis and forecasts of Ontario’s economy, industry sectors, housing markets, and regional/local economies. These reports advance economic intelligence for Central 1 and member credit unions in Ontario. The incumbent is expected to enhance the public image and awareness of the credit union systems in Ontario and of Central 1 Credit Union by providing economic commentary to media and by presentations to various audiences. Representing Central 1 Credit Union or member Ontario credit unions on provincial or regional/local organizations, events, presentations or meetings related to economic matters, the incumbent will also be expected to maintain effective working relationships with the department's clients and external network of information sourcing.

The Regional Economist will also perform macroeconomic and regional economic analyses; prepare forecasts and conducts statistical analyses using econometric techniques; research and prepare publication and reports for executive management, Central 1’s departments, member credit unions, credit union clients, media, and external audiences.

You'll be primarily responsible for:

• Conduct economic research and analysis on the Ontario provincial economy, key industry sectors, labour and housing markets, and regional economies within the province. 
• Prepare and produce the Economic Analysis of Ontario publication covering the economic outlook, housing outlook, regional economic outlooks, and other topics. 
• Prepare and communicate analysis and forecasts through written reports, presentation materials, and oral briefings as well as complete the Weekly Economic Briefing of Ontario report covering the latest economic and housing data.
• Monitor and maintain an up-to-date knowledge of economic conditions, trends, and developments in the Ontario economy, its key industries and economic regions in addition to global, national, and financial market trends and developments. 
• Prepare forecasts of the provincial economy, industry sectors, labour and housing markets, demography, regional/local economies and government sectors.
• Perform statistical, seasonal adjustment and econometric procedures on economic data for analysis and forecast purposes.
• Initiate and take a proactive role in developing a good working relationship with member Ontario credit unions as well.
• Develop and maintain relationships with external sources consisting of decision makers and analysts throughout the Ontario economy and industry sectors to ensure relevant information and insight is gained.
• Respond to requests for economic analysis and market information services from member Ontario credit unions, Central 1 management, and Central 1 departments.
• Initiate and oversee economic research or credit union projects and studies advancing knowledge of the economy or industries relevant to Central 1 or Ontario credit union operations including preparing client-driven reports and presentations.
• Conduct economic research and analysis on special projects such as credit union requests for economic and demographic analysis and forecast of local market areas.
• Maintain and enhance the public profile of Ontario credit unions and Central 1 by providing economic commentary to media, delivering presentations to a variety of external audiences, and representing Central 1 in various external capacities.
• Provide input to department strategy on formulating department initiatives and direction.
  

• A graduate degree (MA) in Economics and at least 3-5 years of direct work experience is required.
• Strong grounding in macroeconomic, monetary, regional economic analysis, and housing market principles; sound knowledge of econometric modelling and forecasting methods are necessary. Solid understanding of Ontario’s economy and its drivers is preferred.
• A high level of computer literacy is required with software such as EViews and SPSS, and proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and similar software.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas in simple, efficient terms through written material, presentations, and media interviews is necessary.

As much as we believe in working hard, we also believe in personal growth and taking time for ourselves. Accordingly, our total rewards philosophy amounts to one of the best compensation and benefits packages in the industry – from performance-based incentives and extended benefits, to training and education reimbursements and ample vacation time.

Central 1 is committed to diversity and inclusion. If you have a request for a disability-related accommodation, we will work with you to meet your needs.

Reporting to: Deputy Chief Economist

Grade: G

Date Posted: July 18, 2017

Internal Applicants must apply by: July 25, 2017 

*Unsolicited resumes from vendors will not be accepted for this or any position at Central 1*

**If you have issues or questions about the application process, please email humanresources @central1.com with a description of your problem**