Cayman has a “monumental task” to prepare students for the jobs of the future, new Chamber of Commerce President Joanne Lawson said in her inaugural speech.
The Dart Enterprises chief of staff took over the helm of the business lobby group at its Annual General Meeting last month.
And she immediately highlighted preparing the workforce for the evolving economy as a key priority.
“There is so much good talent out there and this reinforces my optimism about the strength of Cayman as a jurisdiction, but there are still gaps in many professions, between what many businesses need and what the local talent pool can provide,” Lawson told business leaders at the Marriott Resort on 28 Feb.
“Some of these gaps will require a monumental effort to put systems and processes in place to get students ready for future roles in a variety of industries.”
Artificial intelligence, fin-tech and renewable energy are among the new niche sectors expected to play a bigger role in the economy of the future. And the Chamber has consistently called for a skills-gap analysis to re-tool the islands’ education system to ensure Caymanians are primed to take high value jobs.
Lawson picked up that baton last Wednesday urging businesses to do their part to develop and retain world class talent in Cayman and create ‘stepping stones’ for Caymanians to take on leadership roles.
She also vowed to ensure businesses had a seat at the table with government when key decisions were being made.
“We intend to deliver on our promise to you, our members – to promote and protect Cayman businesses and ensure that your voice is heard within the Government,” she said.
Lawson, who is the only the fifth woman to lead the Chamber in its 60-year history, ended her speech by calling on more ‘superwomen’ in business to make their presence felt.
She added, “Let’s all work together to ensure that both the businesses and the young people of Cayman have opportunities to be a part of our economic prosperity.”
She takes over the role from Cayman Spirits Company boss Nelson Dilbert, who continues on the Chamber’s leadership council as Immediate Past President.
New councilors elected at the AGM are Tammi Sulliman, former Cayman 27 news director now with blockchain company B1; Robert Whorms, diector of energy at Caribbean Utilities Company; and Jason Nehra, managing director of tech non-profit Code (Cayman).
They will be joined by Cristina Spratt, the new vice president; treasurer Colin Robinson, Heather Halsey who was elected secretary and Omari Corbin who becomes president-elect.
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