Mr. Caines has been appointed Chief Surveyor in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change and brings over twenty-seven (27) years of service and experience in land surveying, having spent his entire career within the Land and Survey Department of the Virgin Islands Government. His appointment follows his service as Acting Chief Surveyor, during which he provided executive oversight of departmental operations, staff management, and cadastral administration.

Beginning his career in 1997 as a Trainee Surveyor, Mr. Caines progressed through every professional level of the department, including CAD Trainee, CAD Technician II, Surveyor I, Surveyor II, Senior Surveyor, and Acting Chief Surveyor. This structured progression reflects a deliberate and sustained succession pathway, built on technical competence, institutional knowledge, and demonstrated leadership at each stage of advancement. 

Throughout his career, Mr. Caines has been instrumental in supervising public surveys, authenticating survey plans, resolving boundary disputes, managing cadastral information systems, and supporting land registration processes. His contributions have helped to maintain accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in land administration across the Virgin Islands.

Mr. Caines holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Surveying and Mapping from the University of East London, a Diploma in Management from the Chartered Management Institute, and an Associate Degree in General Studies (Land Surveying) from Valencia Community College. He has also worked served as a Part-Time Lecturer in Land Surveying at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.

Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley commented, “Congratulations to Mr. Nigel Caines on his appointment as Chief Surveyor. His progression from trainee surveyor to this senior leadership role is a significant and commendable achievement. It reflects years of dedication, professional growth, and a deep commitment to excellence in the field of surveying. Throughout his career, Mr. Caines has consistently demonstrated strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and leadership qualities that have earned him the respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike. This appointment is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and the valuable contributions he has made to the organization. I extend our best wishes to Mr. Caines for continued success as he takes on the responsibilities of Chief Surveyor, and I am confident he will continue to lead with integrity, professionalism, and vision.”

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Caines said “I am deeply honoured to be appointed Chief Surveyor, having begun my career in the Survey Department over two decades ago. This journey has been shaped by mentorship, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to public service. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and to lead a department that plays a vital role in land administration and national development. I look forward to working alongside the team and our stakeholders to uphold professional standards, strengthen systems, and ensure efficient, transparent services for the people of the Virgin Islands.”

Mr. Caines’ appointment is a representation of effective succession planning within the Public Service and underscores the Government’s commitment to empowering public officers through opportunities for learning and development.

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