Simon Springett assumes duties as the UN Resident Coordinator in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

In his first call, Mr. Springett formally presented his credentials to Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade in Barbados, the Hon. Kerrie Symmonds, where he pledged his commitment and continued UN support to the region, and to the Government and people of Barbados.

"I am honoured to lead the UN team in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, and to continue our strong partnership with the Government and people of Barbados. I look forward to continuing to support Barbados' commendable strides in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, while building resilience, to ensure that truly no one is left behind," he said.   

During their introductory meeting, both Mr. Springett and Minister Symmonds gave assurances of their mutual commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as safeguarding the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Barbados. 

On June 1, the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Simon Springett of the United States as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, with the approval of the host Governments.

Mr. Springett brings his distinguished 25-year career in international development to this critical role, having most recently served as the UN Resident Coordinator in Moldova since 2019, leading the UN's efforts in that country.

As the highest-ranking official of the UN development system in the Eastern Caribbean, Mr. Springett will lead the UN Sub-regional Team (UNST) across 10 countries and territories. He will champion the UN's mandates and advocate for the delivery of the Multi-Country Sustainable Development Framework (MSDCF) in close collaboration with national governments and regional institutions. A key focus will be strengthening cooperation and effectiveness of UN operational activities throughout the region.

Prior to his leadership role in Moldova, Mr. Springett served as Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director for Response Operations at the UK Department for International Development / Palladium. His background includes serving as both UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Mauritius and Seychelles. He also held senior leadership positions with Oxfam, specializing in rapid humanitarian responses. Mr. Springett holds a Master of Science in Development Practice (Humanitarian Protection) from Oxford Brookes University.

In addition to his development expertise, Mr. Springett will also serve as the Designated Official (DO) for Security, ensuring the safety and security of all UN personnel and their dependents in the region.

In coming weeks, the new Resident Coordinator is expected to present his credentials to other Member States under his area of responsibility.  

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This story was first published by UN Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.