WILLEMSTAD – Economic Development Minister Roderick Middelhof is moving ahead with the proposed appointment of Clifford Richardson as Technical Expert on the Supervisory Board of Fundashon Marshe, despite serious objections from corporate governance adviser SBTNO.
SBTNO concluded that Richardson does not satisfy several requirements contained in the position profile, although he does meet the formal educational requirement through his bachelor's degree in Architecture/Building Engineering.
The principal concerns involve the extent and nature of Richardson's leadership experience in the construction sector and his lack of previous experience as a supervisory board member or in a comparable governance position.
SBTNO also questioned whether sufficient evidence had been provided demonstrating experience with strategic-level management, administrative decision-making and other knowledge and experience required under the profile.
Independent reporting on the SBTNO assessment confirms that the adviser found Richardson lacking several of the stipulated qualifications, including the required strategic management and supervisory experience.
Middelhof acknowledges those deficiencies but argues that Richardson's practical technical experience deserves significant consideration.
According to the minister, Richardson has worked as a draftsman, project leader, project manager and supervisor. His experience includes construction drawings, supervision during project execution, material planning and purchasing, budgeting and monitoring the progress of construction projects.
Middelhof believes Richardson's education, technical experience and potential for further professional development provide sufficient justification to continue the procedure.
The minister therefore decided that SBTNO's objections, although considered serious, should not be decisive.
SBTNO serves as Curaçao's designated corporate governance adviser and advises the government on the application of the Corporate Governance Ordinance and Corporate Governance Code to government entities.
The Richardson case consequently highlights the discretion ministers retain when assessing appointments after receiving an adverse corporate governance assessment, while also raising questions about the practical weight assigned to formally established position profiles.