The head of public relations for the police service is to be the new secretary and chief operating officer at the City of Hamilton, it was revealed yesterday.

Dwayne Caines will replace Ed Benevides, who retired from the post last month, in May.

Mr Caines said: “I am humbled and honoured to serve the people of Bermuda in this demanding and exciting role.

“It is an opportunity for me to use my leadership and strategic management skills to effectively move the city forward.

“I am also looking forward to meeting with the city stakeholders to get a better understanding of their needs, ideologies and perspectives to make Hamilton more efficient, dynamic and inclusive.”

Charles Gosling, the Mayor of Hamilton, said: “This is a demanding position, one that requires a strong command of the law, broad communication skills and effective leadership and management abilities.

“We interviewed a number of qualified candidates for this role but it was Dwayne’s vast experience and previous responsibilities that ultimately clinched our decision.

“His work on the strategic planning process at the Bermuda Police Service as well as his secondment to a government ministry speaks volumes to his capabilities and his references conveyed a very high regard for his team-building skills, accessibility and his positive effect on department morale.

“I’m delighted he has accepted the position, as I believe he’ll be a tremendous asset to the city.”

Mr Caines has a BA in Public Relations with minors in business and English from Oakwood University in Alabama and later carried out post-graduate studies at Wayne State University in Michigan.

He has also completed several courses in Britain on project management, strategic management and leadership.

Commissioner of Police Stephen Corbishley said: “He has given 18 years of public service with the BPS and possesses exceptional understanding of the needs of communities across Bermuda.

“I am confident he will do the same for the City of Hamilton.

“He is a strong leader with integrity and independent thought and the BPS is sorry to see him depart, but I look forward to working with him as a strategic partner in his new role.”