Paul Johnson Keynote Speaker

Paul Johnson CBE served as Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies from 2011-2025.  He became the Provost of Queen’s College, Oxford in Summer 2025.

Paul is a preeminent voice in economic analysis and policy advice. Johnson is also a columnist for The Times and served as a visiting professor at both the UCL Policy Lab and the UCL Department of Economics. His expertise in fiscal studies and economic strategy makes him a sought-after speaker and authority in his field.

Johnson’s career is marked by significant roles and contributions to economic policy in the UK. He spent a decade as a member of the UK Climate Change Committee, reflecting his dedication to environmental issues alongside economic policy. His service on the council of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the Royal Economic Society further underscores his influence and commitment to economic research and development.

His experience is extensive in government roles, having been the Chief Economist at the Department for Education and Director of Public Spending at HM Treasury. During his tenure at the Treasury, he also acted as the Deputy Head of the Government Economic Service, where he was integral in leading pivotal reviews that shaped UK fiscal policy, including pension auto-enrolment, inflation measurement, and fiscal devolution for Northern Ireland.

In 2023, Johnson authored the Sunday Times bestseller “Follow the Money,” a book that offers insightful explorations into the complexities of economic flows and their implications on society and policy. This publication has further established him as a leading thinker in economic circles.

Johnson was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2018 Birthday Honours, recognizing his substantial contributions to economics and public policy.

Paul Johnson stands out as a leading economist whose extensive experience in government, academia, and media continues to shape public understanding and policy in economics. His insights into fiscal challenges and solutions are invaluable for shaping a sustainable economic future.