Chief Economist

Deliverable to residents:
The Chief Economist provides citywide economic analysis, revenue forecasting, and fiscal outlook guidance to support strategic decision-making, long-term financial planning, and budget development. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Chief Economist develops economic projections and advises city leadership on market conditions, labor trends, business climate dynamics, and demographic shifts that affect New Orleans’ financial stability and growth potential. The Chief Economist ensures that revenue forecasts are evidence-based, transparent, and aligned with the city’s fiscal stewardship goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage multi-year revenue forecasts for general fund, enterprise funds, and special revenue sources.
• Conduct economic analysis of tax base trends, employment patterns, business conditions, demographic changes, and market indicators affecting city revenues.
• Publish quarterly and annual economic and revenue outlook reports for City leadership and the public.
• Support the CFO and Budget Office in preparing the annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring fiscal alignment with projected revenue streams.
• Advise on the economic impact of major policy proposals and other initiatives, development projects, and capital investments.
• Advise on other projects assigned by the CAO or Mayor.
• Maintain models for sales tax, property tax, hotel and tourism revenue, utility franchise fees, and other major revenue categories.
• Collaborate with the CIO to develop public-facing dashboards and financial transparency tools to promote accountability.
• Represent the City in regional and state budget forecasting working groups and economic policy discussions.
• Provide insights on national and regional economic trends to guide decision-making during economic downturns or emergencies.
• Communicate economic conditions and forecast methodology to policymakers, external partners, and residents in clear, accessible terms.

• Master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Finance, Applied Statistics, or a related field (Ph.D. preferred but not required).
• At least 8+ years of experience in applied economic analysis, public finance, revenue forecasting, or macroeconomic modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain complex financial and econometric models.
• Experience presenting technical material to non-technical audiences, including elected officials and the public.
• Strong analytical and written communication skills, with a commitment to transparency and rigor.
• Knowledge of municipal finance, tax policy, labor market analysis, and regional economic development trends preferred.

Benefits information will be available in the future.