Skelton-Cline Urges Government To 'Headhunt'
Talk show host Claude Skelton-Cline is urging the Virgin Islands government to actively headhunt a qualified Virgin Islander from across the globe to serve as the territory's next Financial Secretary. The recommendation comes amid reports that current Financial Secretary Jeremiah G.A. Frett is preparing to retire by the end of this year.
Talk show host Claude Skelton-Cline is urging the Virgin Islands government to conduct an aggressive international search across the diaspora to recruit a highly qualified Virgin Islander as the territory's next Financial Secretary. The call follows reports that longstanding Financial Secretary Jeremiah G.A.
Frett is preparing to retire at the end of this year after dedicating decades of service to the public sector. Mr Frett was formally confirmed as Financial Secretary in July 2022 after serving in an acting capacity since January 2021, though official confirmation regarding his upcoming retirement has not yet been issued by the government.
Speaking on a broadcast of his radio programme, Honestly Speaking, during an episode titled 'State of Emergency Part 2', Skelton-Cline stressed that the territory must actively look abroad to recruit the best person for the crucial post. He argued that the administration needs to headhunt top-tier talent, insisting that the ideal candidate is a Virgin Islander currently living overseas who should be recruited and properly compensated to take up the mantle.
While commending the dedication of officers currently working within the public service, Skelton-Cline argued that the evolving nature of international finance demands specialized expertise. He remarked that while current personnel are capable, they do not fully meet the specific demands of the present global economic moment.
Skelton-Cline explained that given tectonic shifts across global markets and persistent economic instability, securing the most qualified leader for the Ministry of Finance is paramount. The Financial Secretary is tasked with the day-to-day management and administrative oversight of the ministry to ensure efficient service delivery across all subordinate departments.
The commentator noted that mounting geopolitical tensions and international market uncertainties could provide strong incentives for professionals abroad to return to the Virgin Islands. He observed that many overseas Virgin Islanders may view the territory as an attractive and secure place to live, far removed from direct military conflicts.
However, Skelton-Cline cautioned that geographic isolation does not protect the territory from broader global crises. He warned of potential vulnerabilities in international supply chains, particularly regarding food and fuel supplies, and urged both government leaders and the public to implement robust preparedness measures to navigate potential shortages.
Primary source: BVI News