Rain Newton-Smith

Chief Executive of the CBI, Former Chief Economist, World Economic Forum Young Global Leader & Leading UK Expert on Global Economics and Sustainable Growth

Rain Newton-Smith’s Biography:

Rain Newton-Smith is one of the UK’s most influential economists and business leaders, widely recognised for her expertise in global economic policy, sustainability and long-term strategic planning. After graduating in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from the University of Oxford and completing an MSc in Economics at the London School of Economics, she began her career at the Bank of England. There, she worked as an Economist and Research Advisor for the Monetary Policy Committee Unit, preparing global forecasts and supporting decisions that shaped the national economic landscape. She later moved to Washington, DC, as Adviser to the UK Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund, contributing to discussions on international financial stability and global cooperation.

Rain continued to build her reputation as a leader in economic insight when she became Head of Emerging Markets at Oxford Economics in 2008, directing research on high-growth economies and global risk. Her growing influence led to her recognition as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2012. In 2014, she became Chief Economist at the CBI, representing UK businesses through economic uncertainty and major political transitions. She played an active role in B7 and B20 global business forums, shaping the UK’s economic voice on the world stage, while her media commentary made her a trusted figure for audiences seeking clarity on economic and business trends.

In 2023, Rain returned to the CBI as Chief Executive, guiding the organisation through a critical period focused on rebuilding trust, strengthening business confidence and supporting sustainable growth. Alongside her leadership there, she has championed responsible business and climate action through senior roles in sustainability strategy and ESG at Barclays. Rain also serves as a Non-Executive Director of the F&C Investment Trust and an active contributor to international economic governance. Her work combines rigorous economic expertise with a strong commitment to sustainability, making her a respected voice on the future of business, finance and global cooperation.

Why Hire Rain Newton-Smith?

Rain Newton-Smith is a compelling and insightful speaker who brings clarity to complex global economic issues. She offers expertise on sustainable growth, ESG frameworks, international cooperation and the transition to a net-zero economy, drawing on senior leadership roles across the Bank of England, IMF, CBI and Barclays. Rain’s ability to blend economic analysis with future-focused strategy makes her ideal for organisations seeking understanding of global trends, risks and opportunities. Her experience working with international business bodies such as the B7 and B20 ensures she brings a global perspective that is both practical and forward-looking.

Rain Newton-Smith’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Rain Newton-Smith’s inspirational career throughout business:

• 2025 – Delivered a keynote address at the Net Zero Finance Innovation Summit in London, featuring as a speaker on transition finance and decarbonisation.
• 2023 – Appointed Chief Executive of the CBI, leading one of the UK’s most influential business organisations.
• 2023 – Managing Director for Sustainability Strategy, Policy and ESG at Barclays.
• 2021 – Became a Non-Executive Director of the F&C Investment Trust.
• 2014 – Appointed Chief Economist at the Confederation of British Industry.
• 2012 – Named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.
• 2008 – Became Head of Emerging Markets at Oxford Economics.
• 2004 – Adviser to the UK Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund.
• 1999 – Economist and Research Advisor for the Monetary Policy Committee Unit at the Bank of England.
• 1998 – Completed MSc in Economics at the London School of Economics.
• 1995 – Graduated with a BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from the University of Oxford.