Today, Groundwork Collaborative announced Dr. Breyon Williams, Ph.D. as its new Chief Economist. As part of the Policy, Advocacy and Research team, he will lead Groundwork’s economic research agenda and oversee quantitative analysis across Groundwork’s priority issue areas.
Dr. Williams brings a decade of experience spanning think tanks, government, and litigation consulting to Groundwork. With a deep commitment to economic justice, his research has helped shape policies to improve the lives of working families, from expanding workforce development and Pell Grant eligibility to increasing access to universal free lunch programs and preschool. Dr. Williams’ proven track record of translating complex data into clear, actionable insights will be instrumental in furthering Groundwork’s mission to build an economy that works for everyone.
“The sharp analysis and political savvy of our policy and research department sets Groundwork apart, and Dr. Williams is an ideal addition to the team,” said Lindsay Owens, Executive Director of Groundwork Collaborative. “His deep expertise adds even more firepower to our efforts to understand how this Administration’s policies impact working families and advocate for an economy that works for everyone.”
Dr. Williams brings to Groundwork deep experience leading cross-functional teams, designing research plans, managing research projects, and developing and analyzing surveys. Previously, he led large-scale evaluations at Mathematica, supported antitrust and pharmaceutical litigation at Analysis Group, and advised state lawmakers on tax policy at the South Carolina Revenue & Fiscal Affairs Office. A South Carolina native, Dr. Williams earned his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina.
“As an economist, I know the American economy doesn’t thrive by accident. It thrives when we invest in the people who power it, the millions of workers who keep our communities running, support our families, and drive our economy forward,” said Dr. Breyon Williams. “We need an economy that rewards work over wealth hoarding, one with fair wages, affordable housing, comprehensive care, and a dignified retirement. That vision demands more than values. It demands evidence.
“I’m proud to join Groundwork to lead rigorous independent research on the forces shaping our economy today, from the rise of AI and corporate consolidation to regressive tax structures and fiscal policy choices, and to chart a path forward that puts working people at the center of economic policymaking.”