The Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) has announced the resignation of Alex Herman as Seabed Minerals Commissioner, ending a significant chapter in the authority’s history.

Herman, who was appointed in 2020 to the Commissioner position, will take up a regional role with the Pacific Community (SPC) in early 2025, a statement released yesterday said.

The Office of the Public Service Commissioner will oversee the recruitment process for her successor, and further announcements will be made to ensure a smooth transition in leadership.

Reflecting on her time at SBMA, Herman acknowledged the opportunity to serve Cook Islands in the public service for over a decade through the authority’s missions.

“I am deeply grateful for the experience, the trust placed in me, and the chance to support the responsible stewardship of our Marae Moana and resources towards a sustainable and prosperous future for our country and our people,” she said in the statement.

“This was an extremely difficult decision, as my time here has been deeply meaningful and fulfilling. However, I am assured that my new role will open opportunities to contribute to the wider interests of not only the Cook Islands, but also the Pacific.

“In the meantime, I will do my part to ensure a smooth transition and handover to my successor, given the critical importance of the seabed minerals sector to the Cook Islands.”

Herman recently returned to the islands with Prime Minister and Minister for Seabed Minerals, Mark Brown, and the SBMA team, following consultations they carried out across New Zealand.

PM Brown wished Herman all the best on her new appointment and future endeavours.

“While we will miss Alex as a truly outstanding leader at SBMA, I also congratulate her on her appointment to a regional posting at the SPC. We should encourage our people to aspire to these roles at our regional organisations as this can only add value to their skillsets and will also bolster our own country’s capabilities when they choose to return,” Brown said.

“As the Minister for Seabed Minerals, I am extremely proud of the work that Alex has completed, especially in completing our regulatory framework to best international standards but more so in developing a terrific team that will continue the work at SBMA.”

Appointed in 2020, Herman has played a pivotal role in advancing the Cook Islands’ seabed minerals sector with vision and dedication, according to the statement said.

This includes the granting of the five-year exploration licences to three companies to determine the feasibility of deep-sea mining for polymetallic nodules rich in cobalt, copper, nickel and manganese and the passing of various legislations.

“Her tenure has been defined by a steadfast commitment to aligning regulatory frameworks with international best practices, including integrating environmental sustainability and people empowerment into core policies,” the statement said.

“Other key achievements include knowledge advancement through promoting marine scientific research and local capacity building, ensuring the sustainable management of our ocean for the benefit of the Cook Islands’ people. Her collaboration with stakeholders regional and globally has also helped position the Cook Islands as a leader in responsible seabed minerals management.”

During her tenure, Herman had been instrumental in building a highly skilled and dedicated team within SBMA, the statement added.

“Her leadership style has fostered a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence, empowering team members to take ownership of their roles and contribute meaningfully to SBMA’s mission. Ms Herman has also been a committed mentor, sharing her knowledge and experience to support the next generation of Cook Islands leaders in the seabed minerals sector, leaving a legacy of talent and capability within the SBMA. This strong, cohesive team stands well-prepared to continue advancing the sustainable development of seabed minerals in alignment with the nation’s values and goals.”