Public service locks in CEOs to 2026 election and beyond

Peter Hughes has cited political neutrality as a reason for extending chief executives' contracts. (Image: NZME)

Thu, 24 Aug 2023

The terms of several public service chief executives have been renewed in ways that raise questions about merit-based appointments and political neutrality. This is the first in a series of articles exploring the state of New Zealand’s public service, including the career and legacy of public service commissioner Peter Hughes.Months before their contracts were due to expire, six public service chief executives were reappointed until 2027 – beyond this year’s election and the next – with the Public Service Commission...

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