Ministry of IISD Announces New Director Designate of the CIG Computer Services Department

By Kendra Okonski

After an open recruitment process in compliance with the Public Service Management Act, the Ministry of Investment, Innovation and Social Development (MIISD) has announced the appointment of Mr. Darvy Whittaker to Director (Designate) of the Computer Services Department (CSD) of the Cayman Islands Government.

As the provider of strategic solutions serving core Government, as well as select Statutory Authorities and Government Companies, the CSD enables these entities to achieve their digital and technological objectives. CSD maintains the Government’s Data Centres and network, and serves internal users with technology. It acts as an internal business partner for Government entities to create their own digital and technology systems in order to deliver a world-class experience to all people and entities that are served by Government.

MIISD Acting Chief Officer Tamara Ebanks congratulated Mr. Whittaker on his appointment, noting “The Computer Services Department provides the crucial framework and underpinning for Government to serve the people of the Cayman Islands, building and maintaining the systems that enable Government to conduct business as well as generate core Government revenue. With more than three decades of commitment within the Department, Mr. Darvy Whittaker exhibits an exemplary combination of leadership, aptitude, and dedication required for success in this crucial position.”

Commenting on his appointment which became effective on Wednesday 1 June, 2022, Mr. Whittaker observed, “The position of Computer Services Director of course entails significant responsibilities and challenges, and I look forward to leading a highly dynamic and dedicated team of professionals to continue bringing meaningful and measurable improvements to fruition. I am honored and profoundly appreciative of the confidence placed in me by the Ministry of Investment, Innovation and Social Development.”

Mr. Whittaker also expressed deep gratitude for the leaders throughout his career who provided support and guidance, which includes the former CO Alan Jones for his mentorship, under the Ministry of CPI succession planning. Mr. Whittaker has worked closely with the current CSD Director Mr. Simon Spiers, who has served in the position for six years. Mr. Spiers will continue for an additional year (12 months) to enable Mr. Whittaker to transition into his new role.

In his budget address in November 2021, the Hon. Minister for Investment, Innovation, and Social Deve

lopment André Ebanks referred to the CSD as the “unsung heroes of the Civil Service”.

Serving 31 years in the Computer Services Department, Mr. Whittaker brings a wealth of experience in the delivery of Information Technology Services. Most recently he has served as the Deputy Director, Service Delivery, with responsibility for all aspects of Information Systems user experience across the Cayman Islands Government. In this role, he provided Strategic Management and Administrative Support to Mr. Spiers, with oversight for Service Management and Integration of Data Centres and network services, database management, desktop support services, and service desk management.

His previous posts within the Computer Services Department included as Acting Deputy Director for Service Delivery, Information Technology System Manager, Senior System Administrator, and Computer Technician.

Mr. Whittaker holds a Master of Science degree in Information System Management from the University of Liverpool, and a Bachelor of Business Administration - Computer Based Information Systems from Howard University. He is also a graduate of the International College of the Cayman Islands where he completed an Associate’s degree in Business Administration.