As part of a major new programme of investment, the Fraser of Allander Institute has appointed Mairi Spowage as Deputy Director of the Institute.
Mairi joins the Institute from the Scottish Government where she was a senior statistician. Mairi’s previous roles have included Head of National Economic Statistics and Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Fiscal Commission.
Mairi’s appointment coincides with the recruitment of a number of additional researchers as the Institute, based at the University of Strathclyde Business School, continues to expand its research into the Scottish, UK and Global economies.
Professor Graeme Roy, Director of the Institute and Head of the Department of Economics at Strathclyde Business School, said, “We are delighted that Mairi will be joining the FAI to take up the role of Deputy Director.
“Mairi will lead on our economic analysis and take forward a number of exciting new projects, including our new Economic Futures initiative which aims to support more young people to take an interest in applied economics and policy analysis.”
“Mairi joins the Institute after an outstanding career in the Scottish civil service where she led a number of important initiatives to improve the coverage of economic statistics in Scotland. Mairi will also bring a brilliant insight into the Scottish policymaking process and the use of evidence to inform decision making.
“Recruiting Mairi is a major vote of confidence in the Institute and its recent growth. We have doubled in size over the last year to cope with the increased demand for our work.
“In a time of economic uncertainty and major political upheaval, the role of independent and impartial scrutiny of policymakers – from all sides of the political spectrum – is all the more important. We are grateful for the ongoing support of the University and the many institutions and individuals who help make our work possible.”
Mairi said, “I’m delighted to be joining the Fraser of Allander Institute at such an exciting time. I look forward to working with Graeme and the Institute’s brilliant team of researchers.”
The Fraser of Allander Institute was established in 1975 and is recognised as a leading independent economic research institute focused on the Scottish economy.