An economist who has held various senior positions in the public sector, Iain Rennie, has been appointed Secretary and Director-General of the Treasury.

The Public Service Commission made the announcement on Thursday, following talk in Wellington circles that Rennie had been appointed to the role.

He will begin his five-year term on Monday, as his predecessor, Caralee McLiesh, becomes Australia’s auditor general.

Deputy Public Service Commissioner Heather Baggot said: “Mr Rennie has good relationships with key parts of the New Zealand economy, including economic and political leaders and commentators.

“He is perfectly qualified for this role and has served successive governments on both sides of the political fence. »