New Protected Areas Commissioner wanted

-after Fernandes resigns over family commitments

The post of Commissioner at the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) is now open, following the resignation of its previous office holder Damian Fernandes.

Fernandes, when contacted by Stabroek News, confirmed his resignation and cited family commitments as his reason for leaving the post, which he had held for the past five years.

Meanwhile, the Department of the Environment of the Ministry of the Presidency has advertised for qualified persons to fill the post.

According to an advert published in the Stabroek News, the Commissioner of Protected Areas would serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission and is responsible for the day to day business of the Commission, its administration and operations. He or she is also expected to drive the creation of an effective National Protected Areas System that is both contextual to Guyana and based on international experiences and best practices in protected areas management.

The ad stated that persons desirous of applying for the position should have: A Master’s Degree from a recognised university in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Natural Resource Management or a related field; at least 8 years’ experience in conservation and protected areas management; at least 3 years’ experience in a managerial position/supervisory capacity; significant experience and understanding of indigenous issues, community development and consultative processes; excellent leadership, facilitation and communications skills and well developed analytical and computer skills.

Those who suit the criteria are encouraged to submit a Curriculum vitae, the names of two referees and written applications by February 3, 2017 to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Presidency, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Bourda, Georgetown.