The Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI), working in collaboration with Ministries across Government, have identified Fifty (50) public officers as the Public Service’s Emerging Leaders who will participate in the first cohort to receive leadership training.

These individuals work across various sectors and levels, and have consistently demonstrated key behaviors and competencies that align with the expectations of leaders within the Public Service. The Emerging Leaders will receive training through the Caribbean Centre for Development Administration (CARICAD) over a three-month period.                                                                 

Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE highlighted the importance of succession planning in the Public Service, and plans to provide future leaders with the necessary tools to succeed in both their current and futures roles of leadership.

Mrs. DaBreo-Lettsome said, “As the providers of critical services for the Territory and the body responsible for driving our Territorial development, the Public Service must position itself and its emerging leaders to become effective contributors to the continued progress of the Territory. As we plan for the future of the organisation, we are preparing for the eventual transition of our current leaders so that when the time comes, we are able to quickly respond, fill the gaps and allow the Public Service to progress on its path of continued growth and development.”

Director of the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute, Dr. Connie E. George said, “Through CARICAD, the Emerging Leaders will receive targeted development and training in the areas of Public Policy Management and Coordination, Strategic Planning, Organisational Development, Business Process Analysis, Human Resources Management and General Management. These are vital areas for development, and we are committed to ensuring public officers receive these opportunities.”   

The Office of the Deputy Governor, the Department of Human Resources and the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute has placed focus on the establishment of a Service-wide succession strategy, which hinges on the provision of opportunities for the continued learning, development and upward mobility of public officers.

Following the completion of the CARICAD course, the Emerging Leaders will continue to receive support from both VIPSLI and their Ministries as they are prepared to eventually assume senior leadership positions within the Public Service. Overall, 124 public officers have been identified to participate in these courses as well as other opportunities that assist in charting their career paths over the next 2.5 years.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to the development and advancement of public officers.