George Osborne takes sixth job as University of Manchester economics professor

George Osborne has taken on a sixth job as an honorary professor of economics at the University of Manchester.

The former Chancellor will take up the unpaid position in July. He said he was “bowled over” by the “honour”.

Mr Osborne, who also edits London's Evening Standard newspaper, is already chairman of business lobby, the Northern Powerhouse.

He also makes after-dinner speeches for the Washington Speaker’s Bureau, is a paid advisor for financial services firm, Blackrock, and a fellow at American think tank the McCain Institute.

One colleague told the Financial Times that his appointment was a "coup" for the university.

In a letter to students and staff, Mr Osborne said the University of Manchester was one of the “jewels in the crown” of the Northern Powerhouse.

He said the institution "was was at the centre of so many things I tried to achieve as Chancellor, from the promotion of new science to the building of the links between this country and countries like China."

He added: “I remain completely committed to that idea that together the different communities in the North can work together so that the whole is greater than the parts - and I believe more strongly than I ever did that the entire county, including our capital, would benefit from a stronger North. That's why I remain closely involved as chair of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership - and look forward to playing a part in the life of The University of Manchester.”

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester called his appointment "exciting news".

She said: "He has been a leader at the top level of UK and world economic policy for many years and showed the vision to recognise the enormous economic and scientific potential of graphene to the UK.

“Our students and staff will benefit from all of this experience and he will be invaluable in helping the University to support the growth of our city and region.”