Hunt on for new NWA head

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Works Agency (NWA) has officially advertised for a new chief executive officer, signalling the end of the tenure of its long-time head Everton “EG” Hunter who has served in the post for some 14 years.A vacancy notice published on Sunday invites applications for the post of CEO at the agency, which is responsible for the planning, construction and maintenance of Jamaica's main road network and flood-control systems.The advertised position carries a starting salary of approximately 17 million annually.According to the advertisement, the successful candidate will be expected to provide strategic leadership for the agency, oversee major infrastructure projects, manage the islandwide road network, guide climate-resilience interventions and ensure compliance with Government procurement and financial regulations.The move comes at a time when the NWA faces mounting criticism from residents, motorists, business operators and elected representatives over road conditions and the pace of response to infrastructure concerns in several parts of the island.Among the most vocal critics in recent weeks has been Member of Parliament for St Andrew North Central Delano Seiveright, who has publicly expressed frustration with what he described as slow, uncoordinated and, at times, non-existent responses to road-related concerns affecting his constituency.Speaking at a recent Constituency Development Fund consultation, Seiveright argued that deteriorating roads have become the single biggest complaint from residents and pointed to concerns involving potholes, delayed repairs, Sandy Gully deterioration and roads left in poor condition following utility works.The MP also criticised the agency for failing to attend the public consultation despite being formally invited.While acknowledging the enormous challenge of managing Jamaica's more than 27,000-kilometre road network, Seiveright argued that residents increasingly expect better responsiveness, stronger accountability and improved execution from the agency.His concerns mirror frustrations frequently expressed by motorists and commuters who continue to complain about deteriorating road surfaces along several major corridors, including heavily trafficked routes within the Kingston Metropolitan Area.The recruitment exercise also comes as the Government advances discussions surrounding the establishment of a One Road Authority, a reform initiative championed by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness and aimed at improving coordination, accountability and long-term management of Jamaica's road infrastructure.For many observers, the appointment of a new NWA chief executive will be closely watched as the Government seeks to improve infrastructure delivery, strengthen public confidence and address longstanding concerns surrounding road maintenance and project execution.Applications for the position close on June 19, 2026.