Geir Barvik (born 31 March 1958) is a Norwegian civil servant. He is most prominently known for serving as the director of the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) from 2006 to 2011, overseeing the integration of several previously separate welfare agencies into a single organizational structure.
Early life and education
Barvik was born in Norway. He earned a degree in economics from the University of Oslo, graduating in the early 1980s.
Career
Government service
- Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion – Barvik held several senior positions within the ministry during the 1990s, focusing on employment policy and social welfare programs.
- Director of NAV – Appointed in 2006, Barvik led the newly formed NAV, which combined the National Insurance Service, the Employment Service, and the Social Welfare Service. Under his leadership, NAV implemented reforms aimed at improving service delivery, increasing digital access for clients, and streamlining benefit administration. He remained in this role until 2011, when he was succeeded by Joakim Lystad.
Post‑NAV activities
After leaving NAV, Barvik continued to work in the public sector, serving on advisory boards related to labor market policy and social security. He has also contributed to reports on welfare reform for the Norwegian Ministry of Finance.
Personal life
Barvik is married and has children. He resides in Oslo.
References
- Norwegian Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion press releases (2006‑2011).
- Official NAV annual reports, 2006–2011.
- University of Oslo alumni records.
This article is based on publicly available biographical information and official government publications.
