Nic Blakeley has been appointed Secretary for Economic Growth and Chief Executive of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
MBIE is the Government’s lead microeconomic agency, responsible for shaping and driving economic success. MBIE works to foster a growing, productive economy by promoting trade and investment, innovation, science and technology, energy security, and effective regulation.
The Public Service Commissioner has designated the title Secretary for Economic Growth to signal a sharp focus on outcome-oriented economic leadership and to provide coherence to MBIE’s core purpose.
Deputy Public Service Commissioner Heather Baggott said “Mr Blakeley brings the leadership and expertise needed to strengthen MBIE’s role in supporting economic growth and resilience. He understands what MBIE needs to deliver against the Government’s priorities for a productive, growing economy. His experience leading change and building strong teams, and his ability to work across government and business, will help MBIE support businesses and communities.”
Mr Blakeley is currently Deputy Secretary, Labour, Science and Enterprise at MBIE, a role he has held since 2023. He previously held several Deputy Chief Executive roles at the Ministry of Social Development from 2013 to 2023, and senior management positions at The Treasury.
Mr Blakeley holds degrees in Commerce and Engineering and a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Canterbury.
Mr Blakeley has been appointed for five years from 21 January 2026.
Biography
Mr Blakeley is currently Deputy Secretary, Labour, Science and Enterprise at MBIE, a position he has held since 2023.
Prior to this, he was Deputy Chief Executive at the Ministry of Social Development in roles spanning Transformation, Strategy & Insights, and Social Policy (2013–2023).
Earlier, he held management positions at The Treasury, including Manager of Education & Skills and Crown Ownership Monitoring.
Mr Blakeley holds a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Canterbury.
He has completed executive leadership programmes at Harvard University, Singularity University, and the Institute of Directors.
