Professor Tim Maloney steps into chief economist role
Head of AUT’s School of Economics and co-director of the Centre for Social Data Analytics, Professor Tim Maloney, has been appointed to the role of Chief Economist at the Ministry of Social Development (MSD).
The newly created position reflects a desire by the Ministry to bring a strong economics focus to its work, especially in relation to the labour market.
Geoff Perry, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, says the appointment is recognition of Professor Maloney’s depth of expertise in labour economics, econometrics and public policy.
“We are delighted that Tim can take that experience and knowledge and make an impact across the wider New Zealand society.”
Professor Maloney’s current research interests include estimating the determinants of university academic performance and subsequent outcomes, predictive risk analysis related to child maltreatment, and evaluations of several New Zealand social welfare and educational policies.
He joined AUT in 2010 and has a background as an academic advisor to the New Zealand Treasury and has consulted to a range of government organisations.
“I’m excited by this opportunity to provide an economics perspective to the Ministry as the lead agency in the social sector,” says Professor Maloney.
“MSD is a large and diverse organisation that delivers social services to youth, working-age people, older individuals and families, whānau and communities. I want to help the Ministry deliver these services in the most efficient and effective ways possible to improve the wellbeing of New Zealanders.”
Professor Maloney’s work at MSD will be part-time and he will continue with his AUT roles.