Professor Dennis Novy from the University of Warwick's Department of Economics has taken up his role as Chief Economist and Director of Analysis at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Professor Dennis Novy from the University of Warwick is the new Chief Economist and Director of Analysis at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The appointment, originally announcement earlier in the year, has been communicated by both the University of Warwick and by the British Goverment as it came into effect on 1 October 2025. 

The position is a significant role within one of Britain’s most prestigious government departments. The FCDO is responsible for managing the UK’s diplomatic efforts, development aid, and consular services globally. 

Novy's appointment marks a pivotal moment for the FCDO, as Novy will serve as the lead economic adviser to the Foreign Secretary, currently Yvette Cooper, offering insight and analysis on foreign and international development policy. In his new position, Novy will not only guide policy based on thorough analysis and evidence but also lead the agency's analysts in creating data-driven recommendations. 

Novy, who joined the University of Warwick in 2006 after earning his PhD from the University of Cambridge, is widely recognized for his research in international trade and macroeconomics. He has a robust history of government engagement, having served as Specialist Adviser to the House of Lords and as a member of various economic advisory councils in the UK. His recent contributions include recommendations on enhancing the UK’s economic security presented to Parliament. 

Warwick Vice-Chancellor Professor Stuart Croft expressed his enthusiasm for Novy's appointment in a press release, saying: 

“It is a wonderful appointment for Dennis, who has an impressive track record in parliamentary and government engagement, and also fantastic news for Warwick.

Croft also highlighted the impact of Warwick’s research on real-world problems and the university’s commitment to societal contribution. 

Novy himself expressed excitement about joining the FCDO at a critical time for the UK, emphasizing the importance of "rigorous economic analysis and principled economic thinking" during globally transformative times, while praising the Economics Department at Warwick for being "at the forefront of that intellectual endeavour". He also noted the many Warwick graduates among his new co-workers.

Novy will remain on secondment from Warwick for the duration of his tenure at the Foreign Office.

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Image Credits: warwick.ac.uk / gov.uk