Economist

Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated

Cary, NC, USA

Posted on Aug 17, 2026

Summary:

The position is responsible for organizing and analyzing a range of data sources related to cotton, apparel, and the global economy at Cotton Incorporated. Research findings are compiled into a variety of formats, including data-centric reports, written publications, and presentations shared globally. Topics span the entire apparel supply chain, from agriculture and fiber production through manufacturing and macroeconomic influences. Motivated candidates will find opportunity to pursue a diverse set of research opportunities with international applications.

Core Functions:

· Track, evaluate, and analyze economic, retail, and consumer data (examples include but are not limited to macroeconomic data, trade data, multiple USDA datasets, and scraped web data)

· Prepare presentations, reports, and publications for internal and external use

· Deliver strategic presentations for internal and external decision-makers across the textile supply chain

· Manage updates and ensure accuracy of databases covering trade, retail, and agriculture

· Manage translation and dissemination of select publications

· Respond to information requests from internal and external inquiries in a timely manner

· Represent Cotton Incorporated to the industry via conferences, presentations, and webcasts

· Track, evaluate, and analyze economic, retail, and consumer data (examples include but are not limited to macroeconomic data, trade data, multiple USDA datasets, and scraped web data)

· Prepare presentations, reports, and publications for internal and external use

· Deliver strategic presentations for internal and external decision-makers across the textile supply chain

· Manage updates and ensure accuracy of databases covering trade, retail, and agriculture

· Manage translation and dissemination of select publications

· Respond to information requests from internal and external inquiries in a timely manner

· Represent Cotton Incorporated to the industry via conferences, presentations, and webcasts

Job Requirements:

· Master’s degree in Economics, Statistics, or other quantitative field of study; or bachelor’s degree with equivalent related work experience

· 2+ years of related work experience

· Understanding of macroeconomic and microeconomic principles, data, and applications

· Strong quantitative ability and experience organizing and analyzing data and statistics

· Ability to identify and summarize findings from a diverse set of databases

· Ability to leverage statistical findings into professional presentations and publications for internal and external use

· Understanding of aesthetics associated with presentation design and charting

· Ability to work within a team and independently

· Strict attention to detail

· Strong work ethic and personal initiative

· Strong communication and presentation skills (written and verbal)

· Proficiency with Microsoft™ Office Suite, especially PowerPoint and Excel

· Programming knowledge or willingness to learn how to program

· Experience with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, EViews) or willingness to learn

· This position requires domestic and international travel up to 15% of the time

Working Conditions / Physical Demands:

· General office environment with quiet to moderate noise level

· Varied working conditions off-site due to travel

· Business casual dress clothes requiredRegularly required to sit and use hands to type and grasp, with frequent standing, walking, and bending/twisting at the neck/waist

· Occasionally required to push, pull, and reach above/below shoulder level

· Frequently required to lift and/or carry up to 20 pounds

· Frequently required to have face-to-face and telephone interaction with internal staff and external contacts

· Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

Cotton Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This Employer participates in E-Verify.