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Paul Johnson CBE is one of the UK’s leading economists and commentators on public policy.
Former Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, where he served for nearly 15 years, Paul helped establish the IFS as the UK’s leading voice for independent economic analysis. In 2025, he became Provost of The Queen’s College, Oxford, while continuing to write, speak and broadcast on economics, politics and public policy.
With experience spanning economic research, consultancy and senior government roles, including HM Treasury and the Department for Education, Paul brings a rare combination of academic insight and real-world policy expertise. His specialist areas include the UK economy, public finances, taxation, pensions, education, healthcare, climate change and inequality.
A bestselling author and respected media voice, Paul is a columnist for The Times, presenter of several BBC Radio 4 programmes and host of popular podcasts including The IFS Zooms In and The Expert Factor. He is also a regular guest on programmes such as Question Time and Any Questions, known for making complex economic issues accessible, engaging and relevant to modern audiences.
Paul has served on numerous government commissions and advisory boards, including a decade on the Climate Change Committee, and has received widespread recognition for his contribution to economics and public life, including a CBE for services to economics and the social sciences.
Insightful, authoritative and highly engaging, Paul Johnson helps audiences better understand the economic and political forces shaping the world today.
Paul explores the economic and social impact of an ageing population and what it means for the future of public services, taxation and government spending. He examines the challenges facing modern societies and the difficult decisions policymakers and organisations will need to navigate in the years ahead.
This keynote examines the changing landscape of pensions, retirement and living standards across generations. Paul provides insight into the growing inequalities between age groups, the pressures on pension systems and the economic realities shaping the future of work and retirement.
Paul delivers a clear and pragmatic assessment of the economic realities of climate change. He explores the costs of inaction, the opportunities created by transition and the policies needed to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Drawing on decades of experience in economics and public policy, Paul explains the forces shaping the UK economy and public finances. He breaks down complex issues such as taxation, government spending, inflation and economic growth, helping audiences understand what current trends mean for businesses, organisations and society.
Thank you very much indeed for speaking at our away day. We all really appreciated the time you took, and everyone really valued the insight you provided. The feedback was very positive.
Your insights and predictions for the economy for the coming year were very interesting to attendees and has sparked further thinking on how we must adapt. Thank you very much for attending and for making the Conference a success.
