Karen Hancock
Experience
Dr Karen Hancock is an experienced economist and policy research specialist with a career spanning over four decades across academia, government, consultancy, and the charitable sector. Currently a part-time Policy and Research Manager at the Standard Life Centre for the Future of Retirement, she works on issues relating to pensions, later-life employment, and financial security, alongside serving as a Visiting Fellow at Loughborough University. Her career has included senior roles such as Chief Economist at the UK Department for Education and Director of Long‑Run Economics Ltd, as well as advisory and analytical work for organisations including DEFRA, the UK Space Agency, and major charities. She completed her PhD at Loughborough University in 2023, focusing on the wellbeing and lived experience of older people, complementing earlier degrees in economics from the London School of Economics. Known for applying rigorous economic analysis to real-world policy challenges, her most recent work spans labour markets, education, health, and ageing, with a particular focus on improving outcomes and opportunities in later life.