A system leader or agency has a mandate (via the Public Service Commissioner or Cabinet respectively) to lead on a particular function across the public service.
The basics
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When to use this tool
- There is a need for stronger more centralised coordination of certain functions to enable improved government performance
- Areas where there are likely to be benefits to a common approach, for example, standard setting, infrastructure provision, capability, strategic planning, strategic investment and/or an assurance role
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How to agree goals/outcomes
- Outcomes agreed with appropriate minister
- PSLT to set strategic direction for achieving outcomes
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Governance model required
- System leader or agency to keep PSLT updated on progress as necessary, and consult PSLT when appropriate (for example, drafting of standards)
- System leader could form a CE governance group where useful
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Ministerial relationships required
- Appropriate minister for System Leader or agency
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Incentives required
- As for functional leader/head of profession
- Plus any of:
- assurance function for new related budget bids and major projects
- mandatory standards set by a system leader (with Cabinet approval)
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How to manage the funding
- As for functional leader/head of profession model
A system leader appointed by the Public Service Commissioner will be a Public Service chief executive (whether of a department or departmental agency or a Functional Chief Executive).
Case Study: Government Chief Digital Officer — System Leader for Digital
The role of Government Chief Digital Officer (GCDO) has existed in some form for the last decade, largely as a functional leader. This role is held by the Chief Executive of Department of Internal Affairs. The GCDO is responsible for:
- setting digital policy and standards
- improving investments
- establishing and managing services
- developing capability
- system assurance (assuring digital government outcomes).
The GCDO’s mandate applies to all Public and non-Public Service departments as well as major Crown agents. Other public sector agencies are also participating in many of the initiatives GCDO is leading.
The GCDO was recently designated as a system leader by the Public Service Commissioner, recognising the opportunity to go further in centralising this function, and taking a whole-of-public service approach to strategic planning and investment in digital technology.
The GCDO is part of a system leaders chief executive group convened by the Public Service Commissioner. This group ensures the interdependencies between their work are managed and identifies common issues and opportunities in their work.