Andrew Charlton – Economist

Andrew Charlton is an economist who previously served as the senior economic adviser to Australia’s Prime Minister and, along with Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz, co-authored “Ozonomics and Fair Trade for All.” A Rhodes Scholar who earned a master’s degree along with a doctorate in economics from Oxford University, Charlton co-founded and now serves as the director of AlphaBeta Strategy & Economics. Charlton’s company identifies and leverages existing and future market trends in order to assist its clients in developing a strategic plan for continued prosperity and financial well-being.

What are some things that you love?

One of the great benefits of the career path I have taken thus far has been the opportunity to develop solutions to some of the world’s most pressing economic issues. These are complex issues that require a detailed and thoughtful approach, and there are few things I enjoy more than attempting to develop a comprehensive solution through the use of analytical, nuanced and detail-oriented methodologies. The process alone is quite enjoyable, and, of course, identifying the most effective solution is always exceptionally gratifying.

What’s your favorite film?

While I tend to prefer documentary films, I have always deeply appreciated Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. I particularly enjoyed the way Kubrick took a unique approach to imagery and dialogue, but it is the themes the film presents and deals with — existentialism, evolution, artificial intelligence — that make it my favorite film.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

“Take your work seriously, but don’t take yourself seriously.” I’m not quite sure of where I first came across the quote, but I have heard it several times throughout my life and have always been keen on following that advice. It has kept me grounded no matter what I have achieved in my professional career and has reminded me that taking yourself too seriously only makes it harder to have an open mind to concepts and ideas that differ from your own.

What’s your biggest accomplishment to date?

At the time, earning a Rhodes Scholarship and attending Oxford University was quite an honor, and there have been so many since then that it would be difficult to name just one. It was certainly a privilege to work with Joseph Stiglitz on Ozonomics and Fair Trade for All, and I am also quite proud of the work I have been able to do since co-founding AlphaBeta Strategy & Economics.

What’s one piece of advice you can share with others?

While working alongside some of the most revered economists in the world, I immediately took note of just how receptive and open-minded they were to new concepts and ideas. I have learned that it is so critical to remain open to the thoughts and opinions of others, especially when they differ from your own. There are few things more devastating to progress in any industry than closed-mindedness, so my advice is to deeply value contrary opinions and beliefs and to focus on understanding the rationale behind those opinions and beliefs rather than trying to change them.