Ian Francis Shirley (28 February 1940 – 20 January 2019) was New Zealand's first professor of public policy and an advocate for social justice.

[6] In Shirley completed a PhD through Massey, on social practice within a capitalist state.

[7] He moved to the Auckland University of Technology in 2000, where he established the Institute of Public Policy, and also served as pro vice-chancellor.

[4] Shirley's notable students include Anne de Bruin.

[9] Shirley retired from Auckland University of Technology in 2016, and was accorded the title of professor emeritus.