One of Northern Ireland’s most prominent economists is to fill the shoes of Sue Gray as Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance.
Professor Neil Gibson will take over the post vacated by Ms Gray - who was recently charged with investigating alleged parties at Downing Street during lockdown - in 2021 and currently filled on a temporary basis by Colum Boyle.
Professor Gibson is currently Chief Economist in Ireland for EY and will take over at a crucial time for Northern Ireland as the proposed three-year budget is being debated.
The appointment comes in the wake of Jayne Brady’s confirmation as the new head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, another senior appointment at Stormont of a candidate from a private sector background rather than from within the civil service.
Prior to joining EY, Professor Gibson headed up the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy at Ulster University, as well as working for Oxford Economics after running his own consultancy.
His ability to present economic theories and forecasts in an engaging and relatable manner have made him a popular figure in the business world across the island of Ireland and his pragmatic approach has made the appointment a popular one.
Temporary incumbent to the role Colum Boyle, meanwhile, has been appointed to the role of Permanent Secretary of the Department of Communities.
Both roles carry a salary of between £124,282 and £141,866 a year and start dates have yet to be agreed.
