The Chancellor has launched the process to appoint the next chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), the body which provides independent economic forecasts and independent analysis of public finances for the government
The statutory term of the current chair, Robert Chote, comes to an end in October this year. Chote was first appointed in October 2010.
Sajid Javid, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said: ‘Finding the right candidate to lead the OBR and build on the significant progress of the last 10 years is vital for maintaining the credibility of the UK’s fiscal framework and our status as a world leader in fiscal transparency.
‘I look forward to working with Robert Chote to deliver my Budget on 11 March before he finishes his second term as chair.
‘I would like to thank Robert for his significant contribution to the world-class work of the OBR over the last decade. He has led the OBR with intelligence, independence and integrity.’
The OBR has executive responsibility for producing the official UK economic and fiscal forecasts, assessing the government’s performance against its fiscal rules and reporting on the sustainability of and risks to the public finances. As an independent institution, the OBR is committed to providing objective, transparent and impartial analysis.
The role of chair has been advertised on the Cabinet Office public appointments website and is open to applications until 20 February 2020. Following interviews, the appointment will be made by the Chancellor and is subject to the consent of the Treasury select committee.
The appointment notice states: ‘We are seeking a successor with deep expertise in economic and fiscal analysis who can lead the Budget Responsibility Committee (BRC) and provide intellectual leadership to the OBR’s staff.
‘This is a high profile and influential role, requiring outstanding communication skills and integrity. Candidates must command broad respect for their objectivity in dealing with issues of political sensitivity.’
Appointments to the BRC are for a five-year term. There is the possibility of reappointment at the end of the term and members can serve a maximum of two terms. This post can be undertaken on either a part or full-time basis. The full-time salary for the role is £158,762.
The application details note candidates will require strong and proven economic and fiscal knowledge; analytical ability; independence of thought and integrity; leadership skills; and interpersonal skills.
Chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility appointment details
