Historic Appointment for New Zealand's Central Bank
Dr. Anna Breman has been officially appointed as the new Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), marking a significant milestone as she becomes both the first woman and the first foreigner to lead the nation's central bank. The announcement was made on September 24, 2025, with Dr. Breman set to begin her five-year term on December 1, 2025.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis lauded Dr. Breman's qualifications, stating, 'Dr Breman comes to New Zealand with an impressive blend of technical skills and organisational leadership experience.' Dr. Breman expressed her honor at the appointment, remarking, 'I'm deeply honoured to have been appointed Governor. I also feel privileged to be welcomed to this country.'
A Distinguished Career in Economics and Central Banking
Born in 1976, Dr. Breman brings a wealth of international experience to her new role. Prior to this appointment, she served as the First Deputy Governor of Sweden's Riksbank, the central bank of Sweden, a position she held since 2019. Her extensive background includes:
- A PhD in Economics from the Stockholm School of Economics.
- Previous role as Group Chief Economist at Swedbank, a prominent Swedish commercial bank.
- Experience working at the Swedish Ministry of Finance and the World Bank.
- Time as an academic economist in the United States, including at the University of Arizona.
The selection process involved a comprehensive worldwide search initiated by the RBNZ board, which identified approximately 300 potential candidates. Candidates were assessed against key criteria such as enterprise leadership, technical credentials, stakeholder engagement experience, personal resilience, and cultural capability.
Focus on Core Mandate and Economic Stability
As Governor, Dr. Breman will be responsible for leading the RBNZ in its core functions, which include formulating and implementing monetary policy, managing foreign reserves, issuing currency, and ensuring the stability of the financial system through prudential supervision. The Governor also serves as the Chief Executive of the bank, a member of its board, and the Chair of the Monetary Policy Committee.
Dr. Breman has indicated that the Reserve Bank will remain 'laser focused' on its core mandate. She stated that the RBNZ would achieve stability for the New Zealand economy by 'focusing on our core mandate' of price stability, prudential supervision, and maintaining a safe and efficient payment system. She also highlighted the importance of 'transparency and openness' in the bank's operations.
The current acting Governor, Christian Hawkesby, will continue in his role until November 30, 2025, and will assist with a smooth transition before departing from the RBNZ. Dr. Breman, who is married with two children, will relocate to New Zealand with her family. The Governor's remuneration for the 2023-24 financial year was approximately $804,802.
5 Comments
Habibi
Central banks are the problem, not the solution. Doesn't matter who's in charge.
Leonardo
Our central bank should be run by a New Zealander. Simple as that.
Michelangelo
It's commendable that the RBNZ has appointed its first female governor, reflecting a positive step towards diversity. Yet, the true measure of her success will be her ability to effectively manage the economy, regardless of her gender.
Leonardo
Finally, some real progress! A woman leading the RBNZ is huge.
Michelangelo
Her CV is phenomenal. Absolutely the right person for the job.