January 14, 2008, North Caicos- Under the theme: “Building a Stronger Ministry of Finance through Teamwork, to Foster and Embrace Change”, senior managers of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning participated in a two-day retreat on the 11th – 12th January 2008 at the St. Charles Resort in Bottle Creek, North Caicos. This retreat was facilitated by renowned speaker and writer, Mr. Michael Pintard, from the Bahamas.

The Ministry of Finance, a major institution in the public sector; is affected by, facilitates and triggers activities for change. It is therefore imperative that it adapts and transforms through effective participation and leadership, consistent with public sector and the wider national development context.

Mr. Delton Jones, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry said “As we embark on our Change Project and prepare to meet [your] expectations, we recognize that team work is a key input for building a stronger Ministry of Finance to foster and embrace change.” He added that by pooling knowledge and working in unity, only then a common goal can be achieved.

The retreat is deemed timely and essential. It gave senior managers the opportunity to pause, reflect, assess and strategize a way forward. Topics covered were teamwork, customer service and importance of change.

According to Mr. Pintard, there is a need to examine our organization on a regular basis: the structure, process and procedures, and culture. There should also be a commitment to effect change for a better performing and credible organization. It was stressed that as a Team, everyone needs to know and understand the vision and mission of the Ministry, outline the core values that govern their culture and take ownership of what they have done. And on top of it be reminded that each one exists to serve the country. That is why there is a need to think outside of the 4-year cycle of administration and focus on nation-building.

It was also discussed that the Ministry, like other organizations, have customers expecting quality service. “Customers must feel that they are getting value for money”, said Mr. Pintard. Satisfying customers is more than meeting their needs in a consistent and dependable manner; it is also meeting their desires and expectations. There should be a culture of real-time service delivery for all from professional, respectful and courteous staff.

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