Appointment of Chief Executive Officer

Senior civil servant Paul Wyllie will become the Government’s next Chief Executive Officer and head of the public service when Andrew McLaughlin steps down this autumn.

This appointment, endorsed by the States Employment Board last week, reflects the Government's commitment to developing and investing in its own personnel.

Over the past 18 months, senior managers in the public sector have taken part in a structured succession planning programme, which has identified and developed future leaders, ensuring a strong team of people is prepared for important senior roles.

Paul Wylie is currently Chief Officer of the Cabinet Office and interim Deputy CEO.

He has successfully completed a rigorous selection process, including independent external assessments, multiple interview stages and scrutiny by the Independent Jersey Appointments Commission.

Chief Minister, Senator Lyndon Farnham, said: "I would like to congratulate Paul on his appointment and look forward to working with him in his new role. Paul has significant public service experience both in the UK and Jersey, where he has been a key member of our senior leadership team since February 2021, during which time he has developed a clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing our Island.

“It is particularly pleasing that we have been able to appoint a candidate locally rather than recruit from off-island. Paul has already been working with this Council of Ministers and the previous Government alongside the current Chief Executive Officer, so his appointment provides continuity and stability.”

Outgoing CEO Andrew McLaughlin said: “One of the objectives set for me by the Chief Minister at the start of his term in 2024 was to ensure strong succession planning within the public sector.

“We now have a clear strategy to invest in and develop our own staff so that they can compete at the highest standards. I am very pleased, therefore, to be passing the role to Paul, who has ably led the transition to the new Government as part of the succession plan. This is one of the best jobs in the Island and it has been a privilege to lead Jersey’s public service.”

Paul Wylie said: “The creation of a new Government means this is the right time to step up into this important role. I am honoured to have an opportunity to lead a public service of talented people who recognise the issues facing our Island and are determined to make a difference.”