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The Gulf Equation: Balancing Tradition and Transformation

Updated: Aug 4

In this wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Emilie Rutledge—Senior Lecturer in Economics and Head of Discipline at The Open University—shares her fascinating, unconventional career journey from the Midlands to the Middle East and back again. With decades of experience across academia, government, and industry, Emilie opens up about her deep interest in Gulf economies, economic diversification, and the often invisible forces shaping policy and people's lives.


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She discusses what it means to be an applied economist, the socio-political structures of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and how living and working across diverse cultures has shaped her outlook. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in global economics, policy, resilience, and pursuing a meaningful academic life.




Key Topics Covered:


Dr. Emilie Rutledge's Journey:

  • Early interest in Arabic and Economics led her to Middle Eastern economic specialisation

  • Her shift from financial sector work to academic research, driven by a desire to understand regional economic dynamics

  • Insights on the decision to focus on Gulf economies, and how her academic mentors shaped this path

The Role of Economic Diversification in Gulf States:

  • Exploring the critical challenges in transitioning away from oil dependency and how policy reform can address them

  • Her work on labour market analysis and its impact on improving national employment strategies

  • The convergence of social contracts and economic policy in solving complex regional problems

Innovations in Gulf Economic Policy and Research:

  • An in-depth look at how Gulf states are developing diversification strategies, with a focus on expatriate worker dynamics and welfare system optimisation

  • The transition from oil-dependent economies to sustainable economic models, utilising various sectors for long-term growth

Advice for Aspiring Economists and Researchers:

  • Dr. Rutledge shares her tips for choosing research areas and mentors, emphasising the importance of following intrinsic motivation and alignment with inspirational leaders

  • The significance of interdisciplinary research, cultural immersion, and embracing diverse career experiences in advancing economic understanding



About Dr. Emilie Rutledge

Dr. Emilie Rutledge is an applied economist specialising in the economies of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). She serves as Head of Economics at The Open University and has previously held roles in the UK Civil Service, energy consultancy, and investment banking. Emilie’s academic work explores themes like economic diversification, labour market policy, and regional integration. She is also deeply engaged in widening participation in higher education and supporting the next generation of economists.




Key Quotes:

  • "Follow your interests: pursue intrinsic rather than extrinsic motivation"

  • "Getting the data right is critical for meaningful economic analysis and policy formation"

  • "The intersection of economics, policy, and regional expertise is where real innovation happens in Gulf studies"


Key Takeaways:

  • The integration of cultural understanding with economic analysis is critical in studying Gulf economies

  • Understanding the unique characteristics of expatriate-majority workforces can lead to breakthroughs in labour policy

  • The transition to post-oil economies offers promising avenues for sustainable regional development

  • Embrace non-linear career paths and develop transferable skills across sectors


Resources and Links:

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