Mark de Garis made the announcement yesterday [30 July] giving “plenty of advance notice” so his successor can be chosen.
Mr de Garis took over as Head of the Public Service – a role which replaced the former position of Chief Executive – in July 2022 after having spent ten months as interim CEO.
“It has been the privilege of my career to serve as the Head of the Public Service, and I am very grateful to all of my colleagues who have supported me in this challenging but hugely rewarding role,” said Mr de Garis.
“When I first joined the civil service in the 1980s, I couldn’t have imagined the opportunities that this organisation would provide me and I am so proud of the public sector and the dedication that I see each and every day.
“When I accepted the role of Head of the Public Service, I was clear that my intention was to support the current political body during an immensely challenging time but that I was unable to commit to the next political term.
“With the Election now less than one year away, I was keen to provide early notice that I would be stepping down in 2025 in order that my successor is in post and I am able to provide a detailed and structured handover to ensure they are in the best possible position to support the incoming Assembly.”