Public Service Commissioner Carl Sean Hunter has been reappointed to the role for another two years by the King’s Representative Sir Tom Marsters.

Effective as of February 17, the Secretary to the Cabinet, JJ Harold Browne, announced Hunter’s reappointment, which was warranted by the advice of Prime Minister Mark Brown.

Hunter with extensive experience in civil service with the Cook Islands government was appointed to the role in 2021.

The former Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Pacific division director took over the role from Russell Thomas, who had been in the role since March, 2012.

Hunter’s first major assignment is expected to be the announcement of the new Police Commissioner.

Cook Islands News has contacted Hunter for comment on his reappointment and his plans for his new term.

In a previous interviews, Hunter said he intended not to let anyone down, taking into consideration the numerous significant challenges that comes with accepting the post in terms of improving public service delivery and professionalism.

“In saying that, however, I am quietly confident that this goal is achievable with the current crop of hard working, motivated, passionate and talented individuals employed in the public service,” he said.

Hunter spent 25 years working in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, beginning as a foreign affairs officer and rising to director of the Pacific Division.

During his time as a senior diplomat, he was involved with multiple agencies and governments around the Pacific, representing the Cook Islands at numerous for a, including accompanying prime ministers and other senior leaders throughout the region and further afield.

After a quarter of a century of public service, Hunter decided to take up a new challenge, this time working in the private sector; where both his parents have established large and successful business enterprises.

In particular, he’s spent seven years working alongside his two brothers in the management of the family-managed steel construction and welding business Rarotonga Welding and Steel Construction.

The selection process for the Public Service Commissioner role involved advertising the position, shortlisting and interviewing prospective appointees.

As per the Cook Islands Constitution, the Public Service Commissioner is appointed by the King’s Representative on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

The role of the Public Service Commissioner is to promote and implement policies and practices that support good governance across the public sector.