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Draft:Winston Thompson

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Winston Thompson is a Fijian agriculturalist, diplomat, and business leader with a distinguished career in public service and the private sector. He is Fiji's Ambassador to the United States, CEO of Telecom Fiji, and pro-chancellor and chair of the Council of the University of the South Pacific (USP).[1]

Early life and education

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Thompson was born in Nacula, Fiji. He pursued his education in Fiji, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, and Australia, where he gained qualifications in agriculture and management.[2][failed verification]

Career

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In 1962, Thompson began his career as an agricultural officer with Fiji's Department of Agriculture, serving in Nadroga and the Central Division until 1969.[2]

Thompson was appointed Director of Agriculture in 1970 and later became the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forests in 1973. He was subsequently appointed Permanent Secretary for Finance in 1978 and moved to the Public Service Commission in 1983.[3]

From 1985 to 1991, Thompson served as Fiji's ambassador to the United Nations. He retired from public service in 1994. In April 2009, he returned to diplomatic service as Fiji's ambassador to the United States, a role he held until 2015. On May 20, 2009, he was officially welcomed by President Barack Obama at the White House during the credentials ceremony for newly appointed ambassadors to Washington, D.C.[4]

After his public service career, Thompson became CEO of Telecom Fiji, serving from 1995 to 2005. During his tenure, he oversaw the modernization of Fiji's telecommunications infrastructure.[2]

Thompson served as pro-chancellor and chair of the Council at USP from 2016 to December 2021. During this period, he played a significant role in supporting the university's strategic plan 2019–2024. His leadership included presiding over key council meetings, supporting governance initiatives, and guiding financial oversight and operational reforms at the university.[3]

In 2019, the USP faced scrutiny regarding allegations of governance and financial mismanagement. Independent consultancy BDO and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) conducted investigations. As pro-chancellor, Thompson oversaw the Council's response, supporting measures for increased oversight and tighter financial controls.[5] He facilitated the implementation of BDO’s recommendations for operational and governance reforms and supported efforts to stabilize the university's financial standing.[3]

Thompson is a senior advisor at BowerGroupAsia, where he provides clients with strategic advice and on-the-ground support for their business priorities in Fiji.[1]

Conservation

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Thompson has expressed a strong commitment to preserving Fiji’s biodiversity and has supported efforts aimed at environmental protection and sustainable development.[2]

Personal life

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Thompson is married to Queenie Thompson, who is known for her storytelling about Fiji’s history and culture. The couple has four children.[2]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Amb. Winston Thompson". Bower Group Asia. Retrieved December 11, 2024.
  2. ^ a b c d e "Winston Thompson". Nature Fiji. Retrieved December 11, 2024.
  3. ^ a b c "Pro-Chancellor's Foreword". Fiji Sun. Retrieved December 11, 2024.
  4. ^ "President Barack Obama Welcomes Ambassador Winston Thompson". United States Department of State. Retrieved December 11, 2024.
  5. ^ "We acted within our powers - Winston Thompson". Fiji Village. Retrieved December 11, 2024.