New Director of Communications Appointed

After a rigorous interview process the Cabinet Office is pleased to announce Mrs. Oneisha Richards-Scotland as Director of Communications (designate). The role of Government Communications is to drive public trust and engagement in government priorities so as to make the lives of those we serve better. As Director of Communications, Mrs. Richards-Scotland will serve as head of the Department of Communications within the Cabinet Office and manage the Cayman Islands Government’s (CIG) reputation, ensure audience engagement with government priorities and direct the continuous improvement of public service communications in order to provide a world class communications service.

Deputy Governor, Franz Manderson says “It is a privilege to see our journey to being a World Class Civil Service at work, developing individuals within our service who grow into leadership is one of our key priorities. The appointment of Mrs. Richards-Scotland as Director of Communications demonstrates once again the talent we have cultivated within the service and that our succession planning is working”.

Mrs. Richards-Scotland joined the Cabinet Office on secondment in November 2019. From that time, she has led the further development of the internal communication function in support of the Cayman Islands Government 5-year Strategic Plan, began Government rebranding and led aspects of COVID-19 communications.

Cabinet Secretary, Samuel Rose says “Effective and modern communications are an integral part of today’s public service. I am therefore pleased that Oneisha is joining our senior leadership team in such a strategic role. The knowledge and winning attitude she brings to our team will continue to build on the communications transformation we have begun within the civil service”.

Mrs. Richards-Scotland has over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications both in the public and private sector leading reputation management, building continuous innovation in communications and marketing whilst managing high performance teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management from Florida International University and a Master of Science in Marketing and E-business from the University of Maryland. Most recently Mrs. Richards-Scotland had been the Deputy Director of International Marketing and Promotions for the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism.

Dee Cotgrove, current Director of Communications for the Cayman Islands Government says “For the last two years, Oneisha has been an integral part of my leadership team, playing an active role in transforming our communications profession and keeping our community informed and safe. In May 2021, I will rejoin the Senior Civil Service and my family in the UK. It’s been an amazing privilege to lead the team here and to witness their commitment to make the lives of those we serve better. I am delighted to hand over to such a stellar successor”.

As Director of Communications Mrs. Richards-Scotland assumes the responsibility for the Department of Communications which includes Government Information Services, Strategic Communications, and Internal Communications, while also serving as Head of the Communication Profession for Government.

“I am excited about the focus the Government has placed on delivering innovative, effective communication to ensure the public is engaged and informed on Government activities, while continuing to build the Cayman Islands’ reputation. I look forward to further developing the communications profession through a strategic approach and cross governmental teamwork” says Mrs. Richards-Scotland.