Ray Jones Appointed Department Director Of 'The New Government Department Of Economic Development'

Certified public accountant Raymond Jones has been appointed as Director of the new Government Department of Economic Development.

This new department comprises a business development unit, including the fintech business unit and ICT policy and innovation, with nine staff on board to facilitate it.

Mr Jones, who has spent seven years at the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation for seven years as Finance Director, will take up the post on December 4.

Prior to that, a spokesperson said: “He held a number of positions including CFO at the HWP Group of Companies for seven years and the following posts in the Corporate Trust Division at Bank of Bermuda: Assistant Vice President, Bank Officer, and Supervisor of Accounting Evaluation.”

The new department was recently approved by Premier David Burt’s Cabinet following an internal review.

According to the statement issued earlier today, the creation of the department has not resulted in any additional posts being added to Government.

The Premier congratulated Mr Jones “on his selection” saying he looks forward “to working with him in his new role”.

“Mr Jones will be responsible for leading the department charged with the awesome responsibility of driving Bermuda’s economic growth and diversification,” he said.

“I am confident the excellent team of Public Officers who have been assigned to the department will be able to support the Government as we work to rebuild Bermuda’s economy following the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic.”

Head of the Public Service, Dr Derrick Binns added: “I am pleased to welcome Mr Jones to the Public Service. He has a strong financial background and the ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams.

“He possesses extensive experience dealing with investment advisors, brokers, shareholders, attorneys, and overseas manufacturers which will serve him well as he leads and develops the Department of Economic Development.

“His knowledge, skill, and experience will further drive the Public Service’s vision of a future-forward government for the people of Bermuda. He will start on 4 December 2020.”