Debbie Power – Chief Executive

Debbie took up her role as Chief Executive, Ministry of Social Development (MSD), in February 2019.

She was previously the Statutory Deputy State Services Commissioner, at the State Services Commission.

She was also accountable for supporting the Commissioner with chief executive appointments, performance management and led work to restructure and simplify chief executive remuneration.

Debbie started her public service career in 1980 as a frontline case manager at the then Department of Social Welfare.

Debbie has held a range of senior roles in MSD including Deputy Chief Executive, Service Delivery; Deputy Chief Executive, Office of the Chief Executive; and Regional Commissioner, Northland.

Debbie oversaw a range of significant projects in these roles, including the implementation of Welfare Reform and the movement of social housing needs’ assessments from Housing New Zealand to MSD.

Between 2007 and 2010, Debbie worked as a Private Secretary at Parliament where she oversaw the interface between MSD and Ministers.

She has also worked in the United Kingdom for the Department for Work and Pensions in the Efficiency Division at Job Centre Plus, delivering working-age support services.

Debbie holds an Executive Masters in Public Administration from Victoria University of Wellington and has attended the Harvard Business School Leading Organisational Change and Renewal Programme. She is a government-appointed member of the Diversity Works Board.