Ben Gardiner is the Chief Operations Officer and Director at Cambridge Econometrics, overseeing internal operations, finances, and human resources, but also still active in project work in areas concerning regional and local development. With over 30 years of experience in economic consultancy, Ben's career has included working for the European Commission modelling Cohesion Funds, and as a Research Associate at Cambridge University where he also completed his PhD in Economic Geography. He also holds an MA from the University of British Columbia, and completed his undergraduate studies at Bath University, through which he became Cambridge Econometrics' first placement student.
Previously, Ben directed Cambridge Econometrics' work in the areas of Regions, Cities, and Local Areas, focusing on sub-national policy and strategy, often with a European focus. Through this work, and his studies at Cambridge, he has authored numerous journal articles and co-authored several books on these topics. He also directed and ran a portfolio of econometrics training courses, from beginner to advanced level, which has taken him around the world to locations such as Bali, Bosnia, and Tajikistan. His extensive knowledge and experience are valued across the organisation, where he continues to mentor and support colleagues.
In addition to his operational leadership, Ben has recently spearheaded pro-bono projects with junior team members, collaborating with organisations such as Refugee Support Europe, Veterans Aid, and Anti-Slavery International.
Above all, Ben retains a curiosity in how economies work, using theory and applied techniques to make sense of the world - something that originally inspired him to study economics. He is always keen to share this interest with colleagues and further afield, for example through outreach and mentoring work undertaken with local sixth form colleges.
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