Ministry for the Environment Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ministry for the Environment has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, and financial advisory.

Driven by a commitment to sustainability, Ministry for the Environment aims to make New Zealand the most liveable place in the world, fostering a healthy environment and a thriving economy for all.

Leadership Roles at Ministry for the Environment

  • Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer - Sam De Costa Acma
  • Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer - Sam De Costa
  • Chief Information Officer - Mike Porter
  • Chief of Staff - Martin Workman
  • Sam De Costa Acma - Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer

    Sam De Costa Acma, the Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer at Ministry for the Environment, provides critical financial analysis and strategic guidance to support the Ministry's objectives. De Costa Acma plays a vital role in financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility and the efficient use of public funds towards making New Zealand the most liveable place in the world. This advisory position involves developing financial models, assessing investment opportunities, and providing insights that inform high-level decision-making related to environmental programs and infrastructure. The Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include monitoring financial performance, identifying cost-saving measures, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Sam De Costa Acma's contributions are essential for maintaining the financial health of the Ministry and supporting its long-term sustainability goals. By offering expert financial counsel, De Costa Acma strengthens the Ministry's capacity to fund critical environmental initiatives and achieve its mission.

    Sam De Costa - Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer

    Sam De Costa, the Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer at Ministry for the Environment, delivers expert financial counsel and strategic advisory services to enhance fiscal management. De Costa supports the Chief Financial Officer in overseeing the organization's financial health, ensuring resources are optimally allocated to advance the Ministry's mission of making New Zealand the most liveable place in the world. This role involves detailed financial analysis, risk assessment, and the development of financial strategies that align with environmental policy objectives. The Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer's duties encompass contributing to budget formulation, financial reporting, and the evaluation of economic impacts of environmental initiatives. Sam De Costa's analytical acumen is instrumental in guiding financial decisions that promote sustainability and long-term economic viability. By providing strategic financial insights, De Costa strengthens the Ministry's ability to manage its finances effectively and achieve its environmental stewardship goals.

    Mike Porter - Chief Information Officer

    Mike Porter, the Chief Information Officer at Ministry for the Environment, directs the organization's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Porter oversees the development and implementation of IT infrastructure, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management systems that support the Ministry's mission of making New Zealand the most liveable place in the world. This leadership role involves aligning technological advancements with environmental policy goals, driving innovation in digital services for public engagement and operational efficiency. Porter's strategic vision ensures that technology acts as a catalyst for achieving the Ministry's objectives in environmental protection and sustainability. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to managing IT budgets, fostering a culture of technological excellence, and ensuring seamless integration of new systems across all departments. By focusing on scalable and secure technology solutions, Mike Porter strengthens the Ministry's capacity to address complex environmental challenges and enhance its service delivery to citizens and stakeholders.

    Martin Workman - Chief of Staff

    Martin Workman, the Chief of Staff at Ministry for the Environment, provides strategic operational support and drives key initiatives across the organization. Workman coordinates high-priority projects, ensuring alignment with the Ministry's overarching goals of making New Zealand the most liveable place in the world. This role involves facilitating communication between departments, managing executive priorities, and optimizing internal processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison, bridging strategic planning with day-to-day execution, and ensuring that leadership directives are translated into actionable plans. Martin Workman's expertise in operational management and strategic coordination is crucial for navigating complex governmental processes and advancing the Ministry's environmental agenda. By streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, Workman supports the effective delivery of policies aimed at environmental protection and sustainable development. The Chief of Staff's influence extends to advising leadership on organizational effectiveness and resource allocation, ensuring the Ministry operates at peak performance.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ministry for the Environment Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ministry for the Environment?
    Ministry for the Environment is led by Sam De Costa Acma (Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Sam De Costa (Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer) and Mike Porter (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Ministry for the Environment’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ministry for the Environment includes leaders such as Sam De Costa Acma (Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer), Sam De Costa (Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer), Mike Porter (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ministry for the Environment have?
    Ministry for the Environment has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ministry for the Environment’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ministry for the Environment includes roles such as Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer, Principal Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff.