Today Stats NZ welcomes Colin Lynch as Government Statistician, Government Chief Data Steward, and Chief Executive.
As New Zealand's official data and statistics agency, Stats NZ collects information from people and organisations and uses it to provide data and insights about New Zealand.
Colin says his priorities are ensuring Stats NZ delivers for its customers and New Zealand and building trust and confidence in the organisation.
"Stats NZ plays a critical role in providing the information that underpins decisions across New Zealand. I have a strong focus on delivery and on continuing to build the public's trust and confidence in the work we do," says Colin.
Mr Lynch brings extensive leadership experience across the public and private sectors. He was most recently Deputy Chief Executive, Policy at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. He has held senior roles at the Ministry of Justice, the Treasury, and Stats NZ, where he previously served as Deputy Government Statistician.
On announcing the appointment late last year, Public Service Commissioner Heather Baggott said Mr Lynch has a strong track record of strategic leadership, building organisational capability and culture, and delivering results across government.
The Public Service Commission has appointed Mr Lynch to the role for five-years from 20 January 2026.
Link to biography on website here: Executive leadership team | Stats NZ
