Brad Olsen steps down as Infometrics chief executive

Brad Olsen is stepping down as chief executive of Wellington-based economics consultancy Infometrics, shifting back to his role as principal economist. Chief forecaster Gareth Kiernan will step in as acting managing director while retaining his forecasting duties, marking a leadership transition for the firm.

Leadership Shifts and Gareth Kiernan’s Return to Management

Stepping into the vacancy is a familiar face within the firm. Kiernan joined Infometrics in 1999, previously serving as managing director in 2006 before transitioning to operations director in 2014, according to the company’s background timeline. Kiernan will take on the acting managing director responsibilities while continuing his work as chief forecaster.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to build on the great work done by Brad leading Infometrics, and I look forward to driving further growth in the business,” Kiernan said.

Photo: RNZ

“As we have for more than 40 years, the Infometrics team will continue to provide valuable data, analysis, and insights across the New Zealand economy, and be an important contributor to the economic discussion in this country.”

Gareth Kiernan, Acting Managing Director, Infometrics

Board chair Chris Whelan praised Olsen’s contributions during his tenure. Whelan noted that the outgoing chief executive brought notable energy, drive, and strategic initiatives to the consultancy during his time at the helm.

“Brad has brought great energy and drive to Infometrics, alongside some excellent initiatives. The Board thanks Brad for his leadership and looks forward to continuing to work with him to deliver our strategy.”

Chris Whelan, Board Chair, Infometrics

Refocusing on Client Interaction and Economic Simplicity

Olsen downplayed the significance of his departure, characterizing the change as routine rather than a major corporate disruption and stressing it was not a big deal. Explaining his decision to step aside, he emphasized a desire to direct his energy toward direct client engagement and accessible public commentary rather than internal corporate management.

Photo: Newstalkzb

“I’m wanting to better focus my time on ensuring as many people as possible – Infometrics clients, decision makers and the public at large – are better informed and that economics is put simply,” Olsen said,

“That remains the mission at Infometrics, and I’m stoked Gareth is stepping into the managing director role to keep the business moving forward. Moving back to the principal economist role means I can best dedicate my time to getting out and interacting with our clients, and seeing the economy up close and personal.”

Brad Olsen, Principal Economist, Infometrics

“I have spent a third of my career, before 30, as chief executive and it’s a lot of energy on top of the economist role flying around the country.”

Brad Olsen, Principal Economist, Infometrics

Clearing the Air on Political Rumors and Recent Debates

Amid speculation surrounding his future, Olsen explicitly denied rumours he would stand for the National Party at the general election. The leadership change also follows a recent period of public scrutiny where Olsen found himself in the middle of a debate between the Treasury and the Green Party after Treasury commentary suggested the party’s reading of wealth tax analysis was incorrect.

Although the Green Party’s policy costings were independently reviewed by Olsen, he later acknowledged subsequent information released by Treasury showed the Greens’ modelling was different from Treasury’s.