Senior Staff Changes at the MOTP
The Ministry of Tourism and Ports (MOTP) bids a fond farewell to Deputy Chief Officer Jonathan Jackson who proceeded on retirement effective 1 July 2023 after fifteen consecutive years of dedicated service. In acknowledging DCO Jackson’s retirement, the Ministry is pleased to welcome Mr. Joel Francis as the new Deputy Chief Officer with responsibility for port-related matters.
Throughout his tenure, Mr. Jackson has made invaluable contributions to the Cayman Islands Government, leaving a legacy of excellence and dedication. He joined the Civil Service in 1993 as an Architect in Training with the Public Works Department and steadily progressed through various roles, displaying exceptional leadership and expertise. Notably, he served as the General Manager of the Recreational Parks & Cemeteries Unit before assuming the position of Deputy Chief Officer in the Ministry of Tourism & Transport in 2014.
Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Jackson has been an active member of various professional organisations, including the Project Management Institute, the Construction Specifications Institute, and the American Institute of Architects. His contributions to numerous portfolios and projects including the Cayman Islands Airport Authority (CIAA), Port Authority of the Cayman Islands (PACI), and Public Transport Unit (PTU) have significantly enriched the community and improved the lives of citizens. Prior to his retirement, Mr. Jackson was engaged with advancing work on the Tourism Waterfront Project and the development of the Central Scranton Park.
The Management and staff of the Ministry of Tourism & Ports express heartfelt appreciation to DCO Jackson for his exemplary service and unwavering commitment and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.
Joining the Ministry of Tourism and Ports in his new role, Mr. Francis brings a wealth of experience in civil service leadership, spanning an impressive twenty-six years. He is a graduate of the University of the West Indies, and his accomplishments in various portfolios underscore his capability and dedication to public service.
Before joining the MOTP, Mr. Francis served as Deputy Chief Officer in the Ministry of Education, where he successfully oversaw the Adult Education Portfolio inclusive of the Scholarship Unit and the Public Library system; leaving a positive impact on education and lifelong learning.
Prior to this, he held the role of Assistant Chief Officer with the then Ministry of Youth and Sports. This period of his service was underpinned by an extensive capital upgrade of many of our community and national sporting facilities leading to international certification that sustained a period of growth within sports tourism of the Cayman Islands.
The upgraded facilities along with policy changes, provided a catalyst for the resurgence of sports among young people in the Cayman Islands. Moreover, his work contributed to the successful formation of the Youth Services Unit and the establishment of the Cayman Islands Youth Assembly. Mr. Francis is particularly pleased with the Proud of Them youth recognition programme and the way that it has motivated many of our youth to continue to strive for excellence in a variety of fields.
Mr. Francis' extensive experience and knowledge align with the MOTP’s vision and goals. His appointment ensures continued quality in the crucial role of Deputy Chief Officer, and the Ministry looks forward to achieving new milestones under his capable leadership.
