Prime Minister Mercelina praises Iris Arrindell’s leadership at GEBE

GREAT BAY: Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has publicly praised GEBE Temporary Manager Iris Arrindell for her leadership of the utility company during a challenging period, expressing admiration for her willingness to assume responsibility and the work she has undertaken since taking on the position.

Speaking during a question-and-answer session with the media, Mercelina said Arrindell's performance demonstrates that St. Maarten has capable local professionals who can successfully lead major institutions without necessarily having to recruit senior executives from abroad.

His comments came in response to a question about the ongoing recruitment of a permanent management team for GEBE. While confirming that the recruitment process remains underway, the Prime Minister used the opportunity to recognize Arrindell's contribution to the company and the country.

"We often think that all the C-levels have to come from abroad. There is a lady sitting there as a captain now in the name of Mrs. Iris Arrindel. You have to give her credit for what she is doing for GEB based also on her experience and her years of service to GEB," Mercelina stated.

The Prime Minister said he has developed considerable respect for Arrindell, particularly because she accepted the responsibility of leading GEBE at a time when the company continues to face operational, financial and organizational challenges.

"Personally, I have a great, great admiration and respect for this lady, especially that she dared also to take the lead of GEB under the circumstances that GEB is now. And I have to tell you that she is doing a fantastic job in what she has to do," he said.

Mercelina went further, stating that Arrindell has performed so well in the temporary position that he sometimes loses sight of the fact that a recruitment process for permanent executive management is still ongoing.

"Even sometimes that I forget that there is a process ongoing for the recruitment of a C-level for GEB because Mrs. Iris Arrindel is doing a great job," the Prime Minister remarked.

According to Mercelina, one of Arrindell's greatest strengths is her understanding of St. Maarten's community and her ability to maintain working relationships with GEBE employees and the public.

He pointed to her years of experience within the company as an asset, noting that institutional knowledge and an understanding of the local environment are important qualities in effective leadership.

"And you know what is her strength? She understands the culture and community of Sint Maarten, and she has a great working relationship with the work floor of GEB, and she has a fantastic relationship with the people of Sint Maarten," Mercelina stated.

The Prime Minister said these qualities should not be underestimated when considering the leadership of public institutions and government-owned companies.

"That is what makes you a great leader in a country, and I have to give her great admiration and recognition for what she is doing for GEB, especially the courage that she had. She didn't have to do it, and she still did it," he said.

Mercelina also revealed that he personally approached Arrindell and requested her assistance in taking charge of the company during its period of transition.

"I approach her and ask her, 'Please, Mrs. Iris, help us out now.' And now it proves that our local people can be great also when it comes to assuming responsibility and taking leadership," he stated.

His remarks also highlighted the broader question of local representation in senior management positions, particularly within institutions that provide essential services to the population.

While the Prime Minister did not indicate whether Arrindell is being considered for a permanent executive position, his comments made clear that he is satisfied with her performance in her current capacity.

Mercelina concluded his remarks with a direct message of appreciation to Arrindell, acknowledging her service and contribution to GEBE and St. Maarten.

"Mrs. Iris, I'm making use of this opportunity to look in the camera and thank you for your contribution for Sint Maarten," the Prime Minister said.

The recruitment process for GEBE's permanent executive management remains ongoing.

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