Tharman has spent his working life in public service, in roles principally related to economic and social policies. He served as Deputy Prime Minister for eight years (from 2011). He also served as Coordinating Minister for Economic and Social Policies for four years (from 2015). He was Minister for Finance for eight years (from 2007), and Minister for Education for five years (from 2003). He has been Chairman of MAS since 2011. In addition to his responsibilities in the Government, he is Deputy Chairman of GIC and chairs its Investment Strategies Committee.