ºìÐÓÊÓÆµ

Steven Emery

Steven Emery
Position
PhD Candidate
School of Public Administration
Contact
Credentials

MPA (UVic), BA (UBC), CPA

Wicked policy problems rarely turn into a crisis overnight.  They are often the result of decades of policy decisions and prioritization (or lack of). These problems prompt government action often when they reach crisis levels, forcing difficult decisions. While elected officials are ultimately accountable, the professional public service plays a critical role in advising ministers and addressing emerging problems before they become crises. However, given the complexity and numbers of policy issues facing society, questions arise about whether the public service has the authority, capacity and tools to manage long-term challenges. Despite access to technology, data, and expertise, the public service struggles with insufficient investment in anticipatory capacities. This creates difficulties in addressing complex, cross-cutting problems. The goal of this research is to examine public sector jurisdictions with strong anticipatory and advisory systems to understand how they prepare for emerging challenges. The findings aim to help the BC Public Service enhance its ability to anticipate and advise on policy issues, ultimately strengthening its capacity to prevent crises.

Steven is currently an Assistant Deputy Minister in the BC Public Service. He has over 25 years of experience in a variety of files including taxation, contract management and finance.  He has a Bachelor of Arts (UBC) in political science, a Master of Public Administration (UVic), and is also a Chartered Professional Accountant. He is also a sessional instructor in the School of Public Administration.