Tasmanian Premier's Top Adviser Quits

The Tasmanian coat of arms features thylacines as supporters. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

PREMIER Lara Giddings' chief of staff, Mark Sayer, is leaving the job.

Mr Sayer was appointed by former premier David Bartlett, a personal friend, and was kept on by Ms Giddings when she became Premier in January last year.

"Mark's insight, experience and links across the public service, private sector and Commonwealth Government have been invaluable," Ms Giddings said in a statement.

"His strengths lie in planning and policy and he has been a steady hand in helping to navigate the many challenging policy issues I have confronted in my first 17 months as Premier.

"He has driven real efficiencies in ministerial offices, which has helped show leadership to the broader public service as we work to find Budget savings."

Mr Sayer said it was the right time to hand over to someone else.

"Following David Bartlett's departure I agreed to stay on to assist Lara with the transition process," Mr Sayer said in the same statement.

"During that time we have tackled some significant challenges, particularly in ensuring ministerial offices are streamlined and efficient in a time of immense Budget pressure.

"I have reached the halfway point of this Government and I believe there is a solid framework in place for the future.

"I have spoken to Lara and we have agreed that the time is right to hand over to someone else to build on that framework as we move to the next phase of this Government."

Mr Sayer was general manager of Skills Tasmania before working with Mr Bartlett.

He had previously held senior positions in the Department of Economic Development and the State Treasurer's Office, and has also worked as a business development consultant and a primary school teacher in NSW and Tasmania.

Mr Sayer took over from Terry Field, the brother of former premier Michael Field.

In March 2010 Mr Sayer was rescued on a kayaking trip off Flinders Island with Michael Field.

The pair were in a two-man kayak when they hit strong winds and enormous seas.

Ms Giddings said Mr Sayer's replacement would be announced soon.





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