As a freelance researcher, I specialise in strategic policy analysis to support ambitious environmental and climate goals. I excel in identifying how trade, skills, investment, innovation and governance can drive the needed, radical changes to buildings, energy, and industrial systems, and in assessing the social and economic impacts of these changes.
Learn how we can work together.
My experience
With over 15 years of experience, I’ve worked with decision-makers at local, national, EU and international levels to shape forward-thinking policies that improve living standards in the long-term.
Since March 2024, I’ve provided strategic guidance and technical expertise to the Pacific Islands Forum at the WTO. As a Trade and Environment specialist, I contribute to high-level negotiations, align Pacific Island priorities with global frameworks on biodiversity, climate, and pollution, and drive a sustainable trade agenda to strengthen resilience and sustainable development across the Pacific.
My journey includes a senior researcher role at Circle Economy and leadership of an analyst team within the UK Government. At Circle Economy, I notably led a cross-border team to develop a European qualifications framework for circular design and construction, championed the need for social justice in a global circular economy, and reported on the impacts of sustainability interventions on jobs and industry.
Before this, I started my career in policy consulting, focusing on the intersections of climate, environment and food policies with jobs, skills and innovation at ICF. Prior to this, I completed a pivotal 1-year traineeship at Cedefop, the EU agency for vocational training. This laid the groundwork for my journey, equipping me with a deep understanding of the role of skills and training in shaping climate policies.
My background
As a dual British-Dutch national, I have lived, worked and studied in six European countries and am proficient in English (native), Dutch (C1), French (B2) and Italian (B2). I hold a MSc in Governance of Sustainability from Leiden University, an MA in European Economics from the College of Europe, and a BSc in Economics from the University of Warwick. I live with my partner and twin daughters in the Hague, the Netherlands.
My strengths
My greatest strength lies in connecting different lines of research and policy analysis, culminating in practical recommendations for policy action. Moreover, I’m highly driven, focused and reliable, approaching each of my projects as a collaboration to produce the best possible results. Being an independent, freelance researcher grants me a high degree of flexibility to collaborate and offer you tailored advice and support.
Get in touch to see how we can work together.
![Independent, freelance researcher, Joel Marsden, in front of the Houses of Parliament in London, UK.](https://sustainableeconomics.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Big-Ben-I-in-Winter-edited.jpg)