Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche has acknowledged the appointment of Thor Gudjonsson as Deputy Public Service Commissioner.
Deputy Public Service Commissioners are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, under the Public Service Act 2020. Subject to the direction of the Public Service Commissioner, the Deputy Public Service Commissioner has all the functions, duties and powers of the Commissioner.
“The Deputy Public Service Commissioner works closely with the Public Service Commissioner to provide leadership and oversight of the Public Service,” said Sir Brian.
Mr Gudjonsson has been appointed for a term of six months from 18 October 2026.
“The appointment term of six months allows a long-term appointment to be made by the next government following the election,” said Sir Brian.
“I’d like to thank Heather Baggott, the outgoing Deputy Public Service Commissioner, for her outstanding service over the past five years.”
Biography
Mr Gudjonsson is currently the Deputy Chief Executive, Enabling Services at the Public Service Commission, a position he has held since 2024.
Mr Gudjonsson was previously the Deputy Commissioner, System and Agency Performance, within the Public Service Commission. A Chartered Accountant, he has provided strong leadership in Chief Financial Officer roles, including at the Ministry of Justice, Ministry for Primary Industries, and the New Zealand Intelligence Community.
