Research and analysis
We examine the questions that matter most for effective government.
Explore our research and analysis
The Prime Minister must ensure that he gets a chief executive at the centre
The idea of appointing a full-time chief executive to lead the Civil Service is correct – provided the responsibilities and authority match the role.
Doing them Justice
This report focuses on how to improve the implementation of social justice policy and identifies eleven lessons for ministers and officials.
Wish you were here?
Tales from New Zealand’s journey of civil service reform.
The reshuffle dilemma
Make-over or make progress?
Clarifying accountability
The latest objectives for permanent secretaries
Guest blog: A response to Martin Donnelly’s speech on the Civil Service
Reflections on his argument.
Armitt’s National Infrastructure Commission.
Moving towards a more sensible debate.
Guest blog: What’s wrong with the Treasury?
A reply to Emran Mian.
The roles of ministers and permanent secretaries should be complementary not conflicting
Secretaries of state and permanent secretaries have different roles, which should be complementary, and not in conflict.
Guest blog: A response to Martin Donnelly's speech on the Civil Service
Reflections on his argument.