This article examines the transformations of Peter the Great in the system of central administration in the fist quarter of the XVIII century. It analyzes the existing system of public administration in the pre-Petrine period and identifis the reasons for the beginning of the state reforms. The author considers the process of the gradual transition from the old management system to the new one – the Senate and collegiums. The detailed account is provided of the functions, the structure, the staff, as well as the offie procedures of each board. The paper points out the underlying principles of Peter the Great’s transformations. The author highlights the need for the construction of a new building for government agencies in St. Petersburg and provides a detailed description concerning the selection of the location and the architect, as well as about the features of the construction. The reasons why the new management system failed to become as effective as Peter the Great had planned are mentioned. The conclusions are drawn about the importance of the reforms of the central administration of Russia.