The South Pacific Community (SPC) new incoming Director-General is Dr Paula Vivili
His appointment was announced at the conclusion of the 14th Conference of the Pacific Community recently, in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
Dr Vivili, will be the 23rd Director-General to serve SPC and its 27 members. He assumes the roles as the first Tongan to be appointed to lead the organisation since.
Dr Vivili takes on the role in a region where resilience and the need for just transition are increasingly in focus, due to the growing threat of climate change, and its impacts on Pacific communities.
In a changing and dynamic environment, the role of SPC is becoming increasingly important as an extension of the countries as it collaborates with partners to meet member needs.
Speaking after the announcement Dr Vivili expressed his commitment to serving the people of the Pacific in his new role.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be given the trust of the members to serve the Pacific Community as Director-General,” he assured.
Dr Vivili previously served as SPC’s Deputy Director General, Science and Capability for five years and before that as the Director for the Public Health Division for six years.
Prior to joining SPC, he worked for the Ministry of Health in Tonga for almost 20 years.