Gabriella Neilon

I am currently working as a Consultant for the Data Analytics and Policy unit within the Administrative Data and Research division of the National Treasury of South Africa seconded from UNU.

I worked on projects including the impact of CPI surprises on bond yields and the USD/ZAR exchange rate, investment elasticities as well as the FX pass-through on inflation.

I developed empirical models for a policy brief on housing shortages, which has helped me further refine my data analysis, micro- and macroeconomic modeling, and creative problem-solving skills.

As a Wine Consultant/Sommelier, I was responsible for presenting wines to clients, managing the sales process, and providing expert advice on wine selections. I handled inventory control, organized promotional events, and represented the winery at various functions, ensuring a professional and welcoming environment for customers. Additionally, I facilitated clear communication with both clients and suppliers, contributing to the overall success of the sales and customer service operations.

As an Econometrics Tutor, I covered both cross-sectional and time-series econometrics. I prepared presentations that linked theoretical concepts to practical examples, designed and graded assignments, and provided feedback to help students deepen their understanding.

I undertook a comprehensive research project commissioned by the BER, which delved into the viability of implementing Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in South Africa. My responsibilities included data analysis, literature review, and synthesising insights into clear, evidence-based recommendations. I worked closely with senior researchers to refine findings, drafted and edited research notes, and ensured clarity and structure while integrating feedback.

While working as a Data Scientist Consultant for a prominent U.S.-based venture capital firm, I supported their strategic expansion into the European market. One of my key contributions was the development of an advanced database system that supported the firm's market expansion.

I tutored first-year economics students in class sessions and graded their assignments. During my tutorship, I identified a market gap for affordable extra lessons, organising a successful 3-hour intensive course for 60 students in collaboration with the university.

Double Degree Programme. Focus: Quantitative methods of economic research and development economics, data science, financial econometrics, risk modelling, financial modelling, portfolio optimisation, advanced time series econometrics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics. Thesis: An Empirical Analysis of the Optimal Structure Of Retail CBDC for Achieving Financial Inclusion in South Africa. Final Mark for Thesis: 87% (1.0) Final Mark: 1.9

Part of Double Degree Programme. Focus: Quantitative methods of economic research and development economics, data science, financial econometrics, risk modelling, financial modelling, portfolio optimisation, advanced time series econometrics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics. Thesis: An Empirical Analysis of the Optimal Structure Of Retail CBDC for Achieving Financial Inclusion in South Africa. Final Mark for Thesis: 87% (1.0) Final Mark: 1.9

Double Major Honours in Financial Economics and Financial Derivative Instruments. Focus: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Monetary Economics, International Finance, and Financial Derivative Instruments. Thesis: The Relationship between Inflation, Fiscal Deficits, and Long- & Short-Run Bonds in the EU: Evidence from Three Periods.

Focus: Financial Accounting, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Derivative markets and Active Investment Management, Bond market and Financial Derivative Instruments.