Stephanie J. Rickard

Stephanie J. Rickard is a Professor of Political Science in the Department of Government at the London School of Economics (LSE). Her research and teaching focus on international political economy, particularly the interplay between political institutions and economic policies. She has made significant contributions to understanding trade politics, industrial policy, and the political consequences of globalization.

Her research interests include:

• International Trade Politics
• Redistribution and Welfare
• Globalization and Voter Behavior
• Electoral Institutions
• Industrial Subsidies and Government Procurement
• Economic Geography and Policy Design

Stephanie’s recent publications explore the political dynamics of tariffs and subsidies, the electoral consequences of offshoring, and how governments target economic benefits. Her work consistently emphasizes how domestic political institutions interact with economic geography to shape policy outcomes. She has published in top journals such as International Organization, The Journal of Politics, and Comparative Political Studies.

Her award-winning book, Spending to Win (Cambridge University Press, 2018), investigates how electoral incentives and regional economic structures influence government subsidies. She has contributed to policy discussions, including the design of the UK’s subsidy control framework.

• Chair, Board of International Organization
• Member, UK Trade and Agriculture Commission
• Independent Member, Parliamentary and Political Service Honours Committee

She frequently engages with media outlets such as the BBC and Bloomberg, offering expert commentary on global economic developments. Her research has been supported by various academic and policy institutions, and she advises on governance of international economic policy.

Stephanie Rickard leads no formal lab but directs major editorial and policy boards, shaping discourse in political economy. Her work continues to influence both academic and policy debates on industrial strategy, trade, and democratic accountability.