The Director of the Maritime Department is a senior management post with primary responsibility for overseeing, regulating, and advancing all maritime affairs within the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).

GOVERNMENT VACANCY

JOB TITLE:                                        Director

GRADE:                                                      9 $75,363.00 per annum

MINISTRY/INSTITUTION:            Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming and Disaster Management

DEPARTMENT/DIVISION:            DMS

LOCATION:                                          The job is based in Providenciales but at the discretion of Permanent Secretary may be relocated to another part of TCI.

PURPOSE OF JOB:

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Strategic & Legislative Leadership

1. Develop and implement a national strategic plan for maritime affairs, aligned with TCI’s sustainable development goals.
2. Conduct SWOT analyses to assess Departmental effectiveness and inform long-term planning.
3. Lead the review and drafting of maritime laws and regulations, with special focus on small craft (below 15 meters), safety, and vessel registration.
4. Provide expert policy advice to the Ministry, Cabinet, and relevant authorities through position papers and Cabinet submissions.
5. Prepare and implement the Department’s Corporate and Operational Plans and annual budgets.

Regulatory Oversight & Compliance

1. Oversee the enforcement of maritime laws and coordinate the issuance of relevant permits and licenses.
2. Ensure compliance with international maritime standards and conventions, including IMO regulations and the III (Triple I) Code.
3. Coordinate TCI’s representation on international maritime forums and with regional maritime administrations.

Environmental & Safety Responsibilities

1. Develop, maintain, and implement the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan in coordination with relevant agencies.
2. Lead and coordinate response operations during marine pollution incidents, including oil spills.
3. Promote and ensure boater safety across TCI waters through public education, policy, and enforcement.
4. Coordinate marine spatial planning initiatives to balance maritime use with environmental protection.

Blue Economy & Sector Development

1. Play a pivotal role in developing and implementing Blue Economy strategies to enhance sustainable marine resource use.
2. Facilitate and enable the growth of yacht tourism through regulatory support, port infrastructure development, and private sector engagement.
3. Promote the expansion and modernization of the Turks and Caicos Islands Ship Registry (TCISR), ensuring alignment with international best practices.
4. Guide the development and implementation of a national policy and legislative framework for small craft, with emphasis on crafts below 15 meters.

Stakeholder Engagement & Capacity Building

1. Liaise with key stakeholders including the Port Authority, DECR, Fishermen Associations, shipping agents, and vessel owners/operators.
2. Chair or participate in national committees (e.g. Gap Analysis Steering Committee) relevant to maritime policy and development.
3. Organize regular staff meetings, capacity-building initiatives, and inter-agency coordination forums.
4. Promote public awareness of maritime laws, safety measures, and marine environmental protection.

Administrative & Reporting Duties

1. Prepare detailed reports on maritime activities, resource management, safety, and compliance for national and international audiences.
2. Develop funding proposals and engage donor or development partners to support Department initiatives.
3. Deliver speeches and presentations on behalf of the Ministry at relevant events and technical forums.
4. Adhere to all Public Service codes, rules, and ethical standards.
5. Perform other duties as assigned by the Ministry or relevant authority..

QUALIFICATIONS and EXPERIENCE:

Qualifications:                      

• A Graduate degree in the relevant field and a Master’s Degree in the relevant field or its equivalent.
• A valid Driver’s Licence, Boat/Captain’s License and Diver Certification. 

Experience:              

The position requires at least eight (8) years in the field, of which at least five (5) years are at senior managerial level.

At least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study or equivalent