New immigration deputy is HR expert
(CNS): Samantha Bennett, has been named as the new Deputy Chief Immigration Officer (DCIO) – Administration and will take up the job on Monday (12 April). Bennet moves to immigration from the Ministry of Finance, Development and Tourism where she was the Chief Human Resources Manager for the last four years. Welcoming the appointment, Chief Immigration Officer (CIO) Linda Evans said this recently-restructured position will provide managerial and administrative support in human resources, training and customer service delivery.
Bennett’s responsibilities relate to different sections, from finance and the filing registry, to the Passport and Corporate Services section. She will also provide advice and guidance on the Immigration Law, policies and procedures, the immigration chief explained.
The new DCIO will work closely the Boards and immigration stake holders to ensure improved service delivery. “I will primarily support the department’s initiatives to enhance its customer-focused and performance-driven services,” added Bennett. The development of efficient processes and effective working relationships among all stakeholders are also high on her agenda.
“This is a critical position and comes at an important juncture in the re-development of our Immigration controls,” said Evans who added that Bennett would be an integral member of the management team – which includes DCIO – Enforcement, Intelligence and Asylum Gary Wong; DCIO – Border Control Bruce Smith; Sherryl Miller, Director of Work Permits and Boards; and Chris Eakin, Director of Policy and Strategic Management.
Bennett holds a MSc in human resource management (merit) from the University of Portsmouth and is a founding member and past president of CISHRP (Cayman Islands Society of Human Resources Professionals).
The Department of Immigration is one of the most active government departments. It has a staff complement of more than 170 officers and administrative staff. Annually, they process over 90,000 clients, and handle over 40,000 telephone enquiries. The department generates revenue exceeding $47 million annually, and has an operating budget of some $14 million.
Category: Local News
Congratulations Sam, I know you will do well!