Marlon Bodden, a veteran of the customs service and policing, will assume leadership as director of Cayman’s Customs and Border Control Service from Bruce D. Smith from 1 July.
Bodden, at present the deputy director for management support services, said he was honoured and grateful for the chance to lead the organisation.
“CBC plays a critical role in protecting our borders, supporting economic prosperity and maintaining public trust,” he said. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated officers, government partners and international stakeholders to continue strengthening our capabilities, embracing innovation and ensuring that CBC remains responsive to the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the Cayman Islands.”
Bodden added, “Together we will continue to build a modern intelligence-led organisation that protects our borders, supports legitimate trade and travel, develops our people and delivers excellence in service to the public.”
The Ministry of District Administration and Home Affairs said in a press release issued on Monday, 29 June that Bodden showed “exceptional leadership in intelligence-led border management, international law enforcement cooperation, anti-money laundering initiatives and organisational development”.
Bodden praised
The ministry added, “He has successfully led major operational and police initiatives, strengthened partnerships with local and international agencies and overseen critical programmes designed to modernise border operations and build workforce capability.”
Bodden has worked in a variety of senior roles and has represented CBC at home and abroad in forums designed to tackle cross-border crime, including illicit finance, sanctions implementation and border security cooperation.
Smith, who will retire in August, was appointed to the top role about two years ago, and has spent about 40 years in government service, spanning customs and immigration.
He was also head of the former Joint Police and Customs Marine Unit for five years.
Smith said he was “confident that CBC will continue to thrive” under Bodden’s leadership.
“Marlon possesses the experience, vision and integrity needed to lead the organisation into the future and I congratulate him on this well-deserved appointment,” he said.
Appointment reflects ‘commitment’
Home Affairs Minister Nickolas Da Costa said that Bodden’s appointment reflected his commitment to public service and protection of the public.
“Throughout his career, he has demonstrated integrity, professionalism and a strong dedication to public service,” he said. “I am confident that, under his leadership, the Cayman Islands Customs Service will continue to strengthen its vital role in protecting our borders, supporting legimate trade and travel and safeguarding our national interests.
“Together, we are shaping a stronger, safer Cayman Islands and I look forward to working with Mr. Bodden as he leads CBC into its next chapter.”
Debbie-Ann Whittaker, the ministry’s acting chief officer, said, “The ministry extends its congratulations to Mr. Bodden on his appointment, which represents the successful development of internal talent and provides continuity as CBC continues to modernise its operations, strengthen border security, and enhance service delivery.”
She added, “We also take this opportunity to express our appreciation to outgoing director Bruce Smith for his many years of dedicated service and leadership and for his significant contribution to strengthening Customs and Border Control and advancing border security in the Cayman Islands.”
Bodden, a qualified lawyer, completed the prestigious International Commanders’ Programme through the former Police Staff College, Bramshill, and Leicester University in the UK.
He also completed a course in criminal justice run by the FBI Training Academy in Virginia and the University of Virginia in the US and is a certified anti-money laundering specialist.
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