Leonard Francis has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), effective April 2, 2024, succeeding Peter Knight, who retired on March 31, 2024.
Bringing over twenty years of expertise in environmental and planning matters, Francis has a rich history with NEPA, starting his journey in the Spatial Planning Division and demonstrating strong leadership and strategic skills as its director. NEPA expressed confidence in Francis’s ability to lead the agency toward future achievements, given his profound understanding of its mission and objectives.
Francis holds a Master’s Degree in Planning from the University of Ryerson in Toronto, Canada, and an MBA in Public Sector Management from the University of the West Indies, Mona. His educational background also includes degrees in Environment and Planning, Economics and Management, and Law. Additionally, he has received specialized training in Public Sector Senior Leadership Development, Green and Innovative Development, Project Management, and Performance Management, according to NEPA.
NEPA highlighted Francis’s research contributions, which encompass various critical areas such as green development principles, development standards, urban development policy, and climate change, indicating his strong commitment to sustainable development and innovative environmental solutions.
Furthermore, Francis is actively involved in nurturing future leaders in the field through his role as an adjunct lecturer in the Urban and Regional Planning program at the University of Technology. NEPA stated that Francis plans to continue his dedication to mentorship by implementing a mentorship and succession planning program within the agency, as announced during his inaugural address to the staff.
The release also expressed gratitude to Peter Knight for his exceptional service and leadership during his tenure as CEO.
