A former investigator with extensive experience in good governance has been confirmed as the new Deputy Information Commissioner.

LaKai Dill has worked at the Information Commissioner’s Office since 2020 and was previously the acting deputy.

She now serves as the most senior public officer in the ICO, supporting the mandate of the Information Commissioner under the Public Access to Information Act.

Before the ICO, she served at the Office of the Ombudsman in research support and later as an investigator.

Expressing enthusiasm for her appointment, Ms Dill said: “I feel privileged that the Public Service Commission, my commissioner and my colleagues are entrusting me with this significant role in our public sector’s accountability branch.

“I heartily welcome the challenge of leading our dynamic, skilled and dedicated team in our daily efforts to ensure public authorities are reaching legally justified, balanced and reasonable decisions around their public record disclosures — all to enhance the lives of the people of Bermuda.”

Information Commissioner Gitanjali Gutierrez welcomed the appointment.

She said: “Given her experience, expertise and proven success, Ms Dill is brilliantly placed to ensure the continuity of the ICO’s high level of performance and integrity.

“Ms Dill is deeply committed to advancing good governance in Bermuda.

“She is a forward-thinking leader who effectively builds bridges, innovates and furthers greater transparency and accountability.

“Ms Dill provides invaluable support for my ability to meet this office’s mandate under the Pati Act and will continue to do so for future individuals serving as Information Commissioner.”

Ms Dill has also been an educator, manager and volunteer with island youth charities and served as a public school board member.

She is a certified practitioner in freedom of information and in dispute resolution through Queen Margaret University in Scotland.

In a statement, the Information Commissioner’s Office said that Ms Dill played “a critical role as an investigator, the information officer, and a key member of the ICO’s management team”.

The statement added: “Her influence and leadership have enabled the ICO to strengthen its resources for public authorities as well as improve its processes for safeguarding the public’s right to access public records.

“Ms Dill was instrumental in the ICO’s strategic shift towards increased resolution-based approaches to resolve or narrow conflicts between public authorities and individuals making Pati requests.

“She also successfully managed the ICO’s adoption of an improved case management software and practice.

“On an international level, Ms Dill has presented on behalf of the Bermuda ICO at the International Conference of Information Commissioners and supports the Bermuda ICO as one of eight countries serving on the ICIC executive committee.”