Dr Stephen Gale has been appointed as an associate member of the Commerce Commission, Commerce Minister Simon Power announced today.

Dr Gale was most recently a director of the advisory firm Castalia.

He was with the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research from 1986 to 2003 and was with the Ministry of Energy before that.

He holds a doctorate in physics from Cambridge University and has 30 years of experience as an economist specialising in energy policy, energy sector finance and, in the past 15 years, competition policy.

“Dr Gale brings valued experience to the Commission with his expertise in energy economics and competition policy,” Mr Power said.

“He has also worked across sectors such as building and construction, water, gas, dairy, and airports.

“His appointment is another step towards further strengthening the commission’s membership and overall capability.”