Amstat News invited Vipin Arora to respond to the following questions—following a tradition of doing so with all federal statistical agency heads going back to 2011—so readers can learn more about him. Look for other statistical agency head interviews in past and forthcoming issues.

Vipin Arora became director of the Bureau of Economic Analysis in December of 2022. Previously, he served as the deputy director of the National Science Foundation’s National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, a macroeconomic analysis team lead for the US Energy Information Administration, an intelligence officer for the US Army, and an analyst for the US Government Accountability Office. Arora earned a PhD in economics from the Australian National University, a master’s degree in public administration from Syracuse University, and a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Illinois.

What about this position appealed to you?

My mother always told me it’s not what you do—it’s who you work with. And, at BEA, the staff are undoubtedly among the best at what they do. I’ve also found them to be endlessly interesting, very friendly, and a lot of fun.

I was also aware that BEA has a storied history of impact and innovation. From our founding within the Department of the Treasury back in 1820 through the COVID-19 pandemic, the bureau has always delivered for America. That legacy—and the possibility of adding to it—also drew me here.

Finally, I really enjoy economics. I can’t imagine there is a better place in the world to work on economic issues. As several people have told me: “Congratulations, you
now have the best job in the federal government.”

Describe the top 2–3 priorities you have for the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Providing trusted and innovative economic statistics that keep pace with the global economy and the changing needs of the American people.

There is a lot packed into that sentence—and all of it is really hard. Yet, I have no doubt we will deliver.

What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) for the BEA?

Ensuring that we remain a healthy organization in the post-pandemic work environment. I would argue this is a challenge for every organization, not just BEA. While there are many approaches to solving this challenge, I am particularly focused on two.

The first is to improve workload sustainability. Many of us have concerns about post-pandemic workloads, especially as we deliver higher-quality economic data to the public. BEA has been striving to improve sustainability over the last few years, and I am confident we are making progress.

Deepening connections—internally and externally—in the hybrid work environment is also critical. We’ve gone through a lot of change in recent years and my sense is that most organizations are still learning how best to navigate these changes. At BEA, we are actively maximizing opportunities to interact so we intentionally build relationships and trust. Again, I am confident we are making progress.

What kind of support from the statistical community are you looking for?

Feedback, feedback, and more feedback. The needs of our users can change quickly. Stakeholder feedback is critical for us to understand the evolution of those needs—and, ultimately, to respond.

Of course, we also love it when people use our data, research, and analyses. At the end of the day, that is why we exist—to provide the American public trusted, relevant, and innovative economic information.

Finally, we value your support in highlighting the importance of what we do. I believe BEA statistics are critical to the functioning of the American economy. Your vocal support can help others understand that as well.

Prior to your tenure, what do you see as the biggest recent accomplishment of the agency?

People who come to work for BEA tend to stay at BEA. I’ve met more than a few people who have worked here more than 40 years, many who have worked here more than 30 years, and several who have worked here more than 10 years and still describe themselves as ‘newbies.’ In the modern era, that is nothing short of remarkable.

I think there are many factors that contribute to such longevity. A handful that come to mind are the importance and magnitude of our mission, our commitment and desire to serve the public, and the professionalism and integrity of our team. In my view, however, the largest draw is the magic that combines these factors: the BEA culture. People choose to spend their career at BEA because they love the culture.

I’ll leave you with one other remarkable accomplishment: Since March of 2020, we have had more than 230 economic news releases, and every single one has been on time.

Learn about BEA’s history and role in America. Read records going back to its founding.