Peter Westaway

Former Chief Economist & Head of Investment Strategy Group at Vanguard Europe & Economics Commentator on the BBC

  • A respected commentator on BBC, Bloomberg, and CNBC
  • Earned a Master of Philosophy in Control Engineering and Operational Research from the University of Cambridge
  • Senior Manager at the Bank of England
  • Senior Research Advisor at the Bank of England
  • Chief Economist in Europe at Nomura International
  • Chief Economist and Head of Investment Strategy Group at Vanguard Europe

When Peter Westaway is booked for events, they are known to discuss the following speaking topics:

Climate change: Too hot to handle?
Inflation: Have central banks lost the plot?
Brexit and the euro? Was one out of two the right choice?
Is growth or austerity the answer to high public borrowing?

Peter Westaway is a distinguished independent economist and financial markets analyst, renowned for his tenure in senior roles at the Bank of England, Vanguard Asset Management, and the National Institute of Economic and Social Research. With an exceptional ability to present complex financial concepts in a clear and engaging manner, he has spent years supporting organisations and future professionals in developing a deep understanding of monetary policy, central bank operations, and the effects of government fiscal policy on the economy and financial markets. A respected commentator on BBC, Bloomberg, and CNBC, his expertise is highly valued across the industry. For those in search of an inspirational leader to share invaluable financial insights, Peter is an outstanding choice.

Peter’s academic journey began at the University of Cambridge, where he earned a Master of Philosophy in Control Engineering and Operational Research and later a PhD in Economics. Eager to apply his knowledge, he embarked on his professional career in 1984 as a Senior Economic Assistant at HM Treasury, contributing to the organisation’s first successful implementation of rational expectations modelling techniques. Recognised for his broad expertise, he later joined the National Institute of Economic and Social Research as a Senior Research Officer before moving to the Bank of England as a Senior Manager. Tasked with overseeing the Bank’s approach to policymaking, his contributions have transformed multiple organisations, and his ability to educate audiences on economic issues has made him a sought-after speaker.

In 2003, Peter was seconded to HM Treasury, where he played a key role in advising on the Brown government’s Five Tests Assessment regarding the UK’s potential membership of the euro area. As a leading figure in the field, he has held several prestigious positions, including Senior Research Advisor at the Bank of England, Chief Economist in Europe at Nomura International, and Chief Economist and Head of Investment Strategy Group at Vanguard Europe. Throughout his career, he has developed remarkable leadership skills and a strong resilience to challenges, making his insights invaluable to professionals and organisations worldwide. His experience continues to be in high demand at speaking engagements where expert guidance on economic trends is required.

Peter Westaway is widely respected for his ability to demystify complex financial information in an engaging and accessible way. Alongside his professional achievements, he has authored influential articles on macroeconomics and policymaking and contributed two key background papers to the Five Tests Assessment. His expertise is frequently called upon by leading financial media outlets, reinforcing his reputation as an inspirational leader in economics. Able to connect with diverse audiences, from university students to senior financial professionals, he is an exceptional choice for events such as corporate conferences and team-building workshops. His engaging presence and ability to break down complex topics ensure that attendees leave with a deeper understanding of economic trends and financial strategies. Peter Westaway is now available for hire through the inspirational leadership speakers agency.

Official Testimonials

Peter Westaway is regularly booked to engage audiences at events, read their latest feedback below:

“We were really pleased with Peter. His talk on inflation was very relevant to the audience and he explained it very clearly.”

Sue, AICPA - CIMA

“Peter Westaway thank you. I learnt more about macro economics in half an hour than I have in the last 44 years and yes, I am one of those buying a house at the wrong time.”

Mike, Managing Director, SF Technology Solutions

To enquire about Peter Westaway for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@inspirational-leadership-speakers.com or call a booking agent on 0203 0070 320.