The Government of the Virgin Islands has officially confirmed the appointments of Joseph Smith-Abbott and Tasha Bertie as Permanent Secretaries within their respective ministries, following their service in acting capacities.
The appointments were made in accordance with Section 24 (1) of the Service Commission Regulations.
Smith-Abbott will now serve as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, while Bertie has been confirmed as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development.
As Permanent Secretaries, both Smith-Abbott and Bertie are tasked with overseeing the day-to-day operations of their ministries and ensuring the successful implementation of their respective Ministers’ legislative and policy agendas.
Deputy Governor David Archer Jr. lauded their leadership, stating, “As Acting Senior Managers, they have provided valuable leadership that has shaped the future of their ministries. I am confident they will continue to deliver great results as confirmed Permanent Secretaries.”
Smith-Abbott brings extensive experience to his role, having held various senior positions in the Public Service, including Deputy Director and Director of the National Parks Trust, and Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science in Botany from the University of Wisconsin, and certifications in management from the Chartered Management Institute.
Expressing his gratitude, Smith-Abbott said, “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the new Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development. The portfolios represent critical components to the Territory’s success and sustainability, to which I pledge my unwavering commitment.”
Ms. Bertie also brings a wealth of experience to her post, having acted as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development on several occasions. With a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioural Science (Psychology), an Associate Degree in Business Administration, and an Executive Diploma in Management, Bertie has held various roles within the Public Service, including Guidance Counsellor and Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development.
Reflecting on her appointment, Bertie said, “While I recognise this appointment comes at a critical juncture in the life of the health care system of this Territory, I remain committed to our mission of ensuring that we build a compassionate and cohesive system of health and social services that truly enhances human development.”