The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority Board of Directors announced that Current Chief Financial Officer Daryl Griffith has been named the authority’s interim executive director.
Friday marked the final day of Executive Director Roger Merritt, Jr.’s contract with the authority, according to the press release.
“On behalf of our board of directors, we are excited to have Mr. Griffith accept the position of interim executive director for the next six months. Mr. Griffith brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise to this position. We know he is the right person to lead the authority for the next six months while we conduct a national and regional executive search, said Derek Gabriel, chairman of the Waste Management.”
Prior to joining the authority, Griffith spent over ten years at the V.I. Housing Finance Authority, serving as executive director from 2016 to 2023, the press release stated.
In June, the board notified Executive Director Roger Merritt Jr. that his contract would not be renewed in favor of conducting an executive search for qualified candidates. “We thank Mr. Merritt for his service to the authority and the territory since 2020. Undoubtedly, Mr. Merritt has made progress in many key areas during his tenure. We recognize his contributions and remain grateful for his service,” added Gabriel.
FEMA recently approved $989M for the prudent replacement of the wastewater system, including 14 pump stations and most wastewater lines on St. Croix, with the prospect of additional funds for St. Thomas and St. John. Additionally, the Authority is eligible for up to $146M to assist with constructing convenience centers on all three islands, closure of the Anguilla Landfill, and expansion and closure of the Bovoni Landfill, the release stated.
“We believe now is the perfect time to conduct a national executive search for an exemplary candidate to lead the authority into these major projects and initiatives. Through concerted efforts of Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett and Director Adrienne Williams-Octalien, for the first time in the authority’s existence, it has access to federal funding sufficient to overhaul our solid waste and wastewater infrastructure in the territory. We’re really excited about the future of the authority,” Gabriel said.
Kimmel and Associates, the largest industry-specific executive search firm in North America, has been selected to run the executive search on behalf of the board of directors. All candidates are encouraged to contact Kimmel and Associates if they are interested in being considered for the job, according to the release.
“We want to assure the residents, employees and all stakeholders that the board of directors is committed to continuing the critical operations and services provided by the Authority and look forward to the great things we will accomplish together, Gabriel concluded.
