Jonathan Phillips - Permanent Secretary, Northern Ireland Office (NIO)

Following the restoration of devolution in May 2007, the current main objective of the organisation I lead is preparing for the hand-over of policing and justice functions next year. In addition to my responsibilities as head of department, I am also senior policy advisor to the Secretary of State.

Last updated - 12th December 2008

My background

I joined the NIO in 2002, initially as Political Director working on the Northern Ireland peace process. I became Permanent Secretary in 2005. Most of my earlier career, after completing a PhD on an aspect of the Irish Home Rule Question, was spent in the former DTI. I’ve also worked briefly in the private sector, most recently at BAE Systems.

Career highlight

Leading the NIO team supporting the then Prime Minister and successive Secretaries of State in the tortuous but ultimately successful negotiations leading to a stable restoration of devolution in Northern Ireland has produced some moments of euphoria.

Looking forward

I hope for thirty more years of hill walking. More importantly, my prayer is that following the restoration of devolved government in May 2007, the newly empowered political leadership will seize the opportunity to challenge continuing sectarianism in Northern Ireland.