Pauline Barnes is an accomplished leader with over two decades of experience in education system leadership, financial management, and community development across New Zealand and internationally. She recently retired from her position as Deputy Chief Executive at the Teaching Council Aotearoa New Zealand, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the organization’s professional functions, developing strategy, and leading sector-wide initiatives to enhance teacher capability and organizational sustainability. She is recognized for building strong cross-sector relationships, driving evidence-based policy, and fostering highly engaged teams.
Previously, Pauline held senior roles at the Ministry of Education and the Tertiary Education Commission, where she managed large teams and budgets, led major change and reform programs, and contributed to national and international education policy. Pauline’s early career includes financial consulting with KPMG and founding a non-profit in Romania focused on community empowerment.
A Fellow of the Certified Practising Accountants (FCPA), Barnes holds a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration from Victoria University. Pauline is known for ethical, values-based leadership, commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and a passion for empowering others to achieve lasting impact.