MHES announces new Chief Medical Officer

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability has appointed Dr. Hilary Wolf as the new Chief Medical Officer following an open recruitment process.

Dr. Wolf’s appointment strengthens the Cayman Islands’ capacity to respond to complex public health challenges and enhance clinical governance across the health system. Her background in managing large-scale treatment programmes and developing health policy in partnership with international agencies will support evidence-based decision-making, workforce development, and improved care coordination locally.

As a physician and global health leader with two decades of experience in infectious disease control, health systems design, and pediatric medicine, Dr. Wolf brings practical expertise in strengthening service delivery and building public health resilience. She served as the Care and Treatment Director at the United States Department of State, Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy, where she was responsible for HIV treatment for over 20 million people living with HIV through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in 50+ countries.

Dr. Wolf has been stationed in Sub Saharan Africa and South America and  has held advisory roles with the World Health Organization (WHO), Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and UNAIDS. She has worked with governments to design and implement policies on HIV treatment, reproductive health, and health workforce development.

Deputy Governor Hon. Franz Manderson welcomed Dr. Wolf’s appointment, noting the importance of continuity and expertise in the country’s senior public health leadership. “Dr. Wolf brings a wealth of international experience and a deep understanding of clinical and public health systems. Her appointment will strengthen the Cayman Islands’ capacity to address current and emerging health challenges, and I am confident she will serve our community with distinction,” said Mr. Manderson.

“Dr. Wolf’s appointment marks an important step in advancing our national health priorities and ensuring that the Cayman Islands remain resilient in the face of evolving public health challenges,” added the Minister for Health, Environment and Sustainability Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks. “Her experience in building partnerships across borders and institutions will also be vital as we continue to strengthen the links between health, environment, and sustainability. I welcome Dr. Wolf to her new role and look forward to working with her in continuing to advance our health system and investing in the wellbeing of our people, for a healthier, more sustainable future Cayman.”

Chief Officer for the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability Ms. Tamara Ebanks, said the Ministry looks forward to the perspective and technical insight Dr. Wolf will bring. “Dr. Wolf’s record of leadership in infectious disease and public health, combined with her experience working within global and national health systems, will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the Cayman Islands’ health system and build public health capacity. We are pleased to welcome her to the Ministry team,” said Ms. Ebanks.

Outgoing Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nick Gent, expressed his confidence in the transition. “It has been a privilege to serve the people of the Cayman Islands and to support the Ministry’s work to build a strong and resilient health system. I am confident that Dr. Wolf’s broad expertise and commitment to public service will bring great benefit to the country, and I wish her every success as she takes on this important role,” said Dr. Gent.

“I want to start by offering a huge thanks to all who have given me such a warm welcome,” Dr. Wolf added. “I am honoured to serve the people of the Cayman Islands as the Chief Medical Officer. I am committed to strengthening health systems, advancing population health, improving health equity, and delivering trusted medical guidance as I work to contribute to the health and resilience of all those who call these beautiful islands home.”