Elena Magrini
Head of Global Research
An economist and policy expert specialised in labour markets, the future of work, and AI's impact on people and organisations.
Elena is currently Head of Global Research at Lightcast, where she advises policymakers, education institutions, and businesses on how labour markets are changing — and what to do about it. With over a decade of experience across the private sector, think tanks, and government, Elena regularly contributes to European and global policy debates. She has authored research with institutions including the OECD and Stanford University, and her work has been featured in Bloomberg, Forbes, and the BBC. Prior to Lightcast, she held senior roles at the Centre for Cities and the West of England Combined Authority. She holds degrees from Bocconi University and UCL.
Lightcast Contributions
Stanford AI Index
Elena Magrini led Lightcast’s research contributions to the 2026 Stanford AI Index, Stanford University’s annual report examining key trends in artificial intelligence, from technical progress and adoption to its economic and societal impact.
Fault Lines
Elena Magrini co-authored Fault Lines, a Lightcast report examining the forces reshaping the global workforce, from geopolitical shifts and demographic change to the accelerating impact of AI.
Beyond the Buzz
Elena Magrini led the research behind Beyond the Buzz, a Lightcast report cutting through the hype around AI to reveal how the technology is transforming jobs, skills, and the future of work.
The Lightcast Global AI Skills Outlook
Elena Magrini led the research behind The Lightcast Global AI Skills Outlook, examining how AI skills are evolving across global labor markets and reshaping the demand for talent worldwide.
Elena in Bloomberg
"Why More College Graduates Are Stuck in Jobs That Don’t Require Degrees"
Elena-Authored Blog Entries
Q: What is a Forward Deployed Engineer? A: The fastest growing AI job.
The Rise of Fractional Leadership
