FMA appoints new economist a year after last one left
The Financial Markets Authority has finally appointed a new chief economist, a year after the inugural appointment departed.
Tuesday, October 14th 2025, 8:55AM
Dr Philip Stevens has taken on the role of chief economist.
Stevens has more than 25 years of experience in economics, including a distinguished academic and public sector career. He holds a doctorate in Economics from the University of Oxford and has held Director of Economics roles at the Productivity Commission and Infrastructure Commission.
FMA chief executive Samantha Barrass said, “We undertook an extensive search for this important role."
Stevens' "depth of expertise and leadership will be instrumental in ensuring we focus our regulatory lens on the right priorities. I look forward to working with him to help ensure New Zealand’s financial sector delivers good outcomes for all New Zealanders.”
As chief economist, Stevens will lead the FMA’s efforts to become increasingly research-driven and data- and intelligence-led, supporting its strategic priorities and regulatory focus.
“This role supports our regulatory approach and involves leading and developing a team of researchers and economists to deliver robust economic research and analysis that informs regulatory priorities, embedding the use of economic theory and analysis in our decision making and helping us to better understand economic drivers and market dynamics across the financial sectors that we regulate,” Samantha said.
Since relocating to New Zealand in 2006, Stevens has held several senior roles across government agencies, including:
Chief Advisor, Economic Strategy – Ministry of Economic Development
General Manager, Research, Evaluation and Analysis – Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
Group Manager, Analysis, Research & Evaluation – Ministry of Education
Director of Economics & Research – Productivity Commission
Director of Economics – Infrastructure Commission
Head of Research – Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 Lessons Learned
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