Rt Hon Sir William (Bill) English is one of New Zealand’s most respected leaders, renowned for his transformative impact on economic policy and social investment. Serving the nation and the National Party for nearly three decades, Bill entered Parliament in 1990 and rose to become Finance Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and ultimately Prime Minister of New Zealand.
As Finance Minister from 2008 to 2016, Bill guided the country through the Global Financial Crisis and the Christchurch earthquakes, returning the Government’s books to surplus and positioning New Zealand as one of the fastest-growing economies in the developed world. His tenure was marked by bold public sector reforms, innovative balance sheet management, and the pioneering Social Investment approach—an internationally recognised model for improving outcomes in health, education, and welfare.
Bill became Prime Minister in 2016, focusing on building a fair and prosperous New Zealand that rewarded enterprise and cared for its most vulnerable citizens. Under his leadership, the National Party secured 44.4% of the vote in the 2017 general election, the highest of any party.
Knighted in 2018 as a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the state, Bill now applies his expertise in governance, finance, and social impact across commercial and philanthropic ventures. He is a director of Wesfarmers, one of Australia’s largest conglomerates, and Todd Corporation, and chairs Mt Cook Alpine Salmon.
Through his consultancy, he advises governments and businesses in New Zealand and Australia on financial services, infrastructure, and social investment. With his family, he invests in social impact and data-driven enterprises serving the philanthropy and disability sectors, alongside interests in private primary production companies.
Born in Lumsden in 1961, Bill studied Commerce at the University of Otago and English Literature at Victoria University before working as a Treasury analyst and returning to his family farm in Dipton. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to sound economic management, innovative policy, and improving lives through evidence-based solutions.
Bill was great and fully engaged during his presence. The guests were all very happy to see him. It was a pleasure having him for our event. ... keep reading Think China
Sir Bill was his usual effusive self, with plenty of down-to-earth, practical advice for our delegates and a few challenges too!
