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Tim Figures is a senior expert on geopolitics and trade impact within Boston Consulting Group’s Global Advantage practice. He is also a member of the BCG’s Center for Climate and Sustainability Policy and Regulation. He works with private and public sector clients globally to analyze and explain changes to trade conditions and trade patterns, assess impact, and recommend actions to maintain competitiveness and value. Tim is an expert on EU trade, economics, and regulations, with a particular focus on manufacturing, professional, and business services, as well as network industries. His current focus is the implications for clients of shifting global trade patterns due to COVID-19, climate change, technology, and market decoupling.

Tim joined the firm in September 2020, following a long career in public service in London and Brussels, that focused on trade, business regulation, and economic policymaking. Most recently he was a senior adviser on EU affairs and trade to the UK Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy; and policy director at the UK’s main trade association for the manufacturing sector, where he helped members address the twin geopolitical challenges of COVID-19 and the UK’s exit from the European Union.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

EDUCATION

  • BA, honors, English, Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge

Publications and Videos

Climate and Trade in Europe

European business leaders face rising challenges, from volatile markets to strict EU climate policies—necessitating agile strategies and scenario-based planning for a fragmented future.

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Climate Coopetition May Be the Best Route to Net Zero

In a shifting geopolitical landscape, policymakers and business leaders need to rethink how they collaborate—and compete—across borders as they work to reduce emissions.
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Private Equity Adapts to the New Normal in Geopolitics and Trade

To stay competitive in today’s world of unexpected global events and evolving policies, investors need to understand their exposure to risk.
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Toward Open Strategic Autonomy

European leaders must adapt to an increasingly uncertain world, as trade flows and growth levels in 2032 will look very different compared to the past.
Navigating the Rise in Foreign Investment Screening

Navigating the Rise in Foreign Investment Screening

Driven by concerns about national security and foreign control over strategic businesses, countries are increasingly screening proposed foreign direct investments.

The Trade Agenda at COP28

For the first time, trade is on the agenda at COP. BCG’s Tim Figures examines why it is no longer possible for the climate and trade agendas to exist in isolation from one another.

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The Responsible Investor: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and Economic Impact on Emerging Markets

Tim Figures, Associate Director speaks on Michael Avery's "The Responsible Investor" feature. Here Tim discusses the carbon border adjustment mechanism and its economic impact on emerging markets.

Global Trade on the Climate Map

The relationship between global trade and climate progress is increasingly in the spotlight. Discover how evolving regulations, changing market dynamics, and new business opportunities might reshape trade patterns in the years ahead.

How Emerging Markets Can Prepare for New Climate Regulations | Hero

Why Emerging Markets Need to Prepare for the EU’s New Climate and ESG Regulations

Export industries in developing nations are ill prepared for ESG-linked regulations issued by Brussels. Without urgent action, many companies risk being shut out of key markets.
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Why Trade Is on the COP28 Agenda

Global trade will increasingly shape and be shaped by the push to slash global emissions—with major economic implications, particularly for countries struggling to decarbonize.
The Green Industrial Revolution Is Ready to Accelerate | Rectangle

The Green Industrial Revolution Is Ready to Accelerate

Recent policy developments are pushing big manufacturers to get serious about decarbonizing their operations and supply chains.
How-Technology-Can-Tame-the-EU-Carbon-Tax-on-Imports-hero-Rectangle (1).jpg

How Technology Can Tame the EU Carbon Tax on Imports

Systems enabling companies across the value chain to exchange data and calculate taxes could help them manage the complexities of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and advance the European Green Deal.