Key People
Click the names below to find out about Optimal Economics consultants and their expertise.
Peter Wood (Director)
Peter has over 30 years of professional experience. Following an academic career, he has worked in consultancy since 1982 and has advised numerous public and private sector bodies. Between 1994 and 1997 he was a Visiting Professor in Economic Research at the University of Glasgow and has been and is an adviser to Scottish Parliamentary Committees.
Edith McDowall (Director)
Edith is an economist with over 20 years consultancy experience. Edith has very wide ranging experience working with leading public and private sector clients. She has particular expertise in project appraisal including appraisal of transport projects involving airports, road and rail development. Edith is also a keen tennis player and dedicated distance runner.
Nicola Hudson (Senior Economist)
Nicola is a Senior Consultant with Optimal. She has worked as a researcher in the House of Commons, with two large private consulting firms and as Portfolio Manager in the Audit Scotland Central Government team. Nicola is presently on a six month secondment to the Scottish Parliament Information team.