THE Marianas Visitors Authority board of directors has asked CNMI Department of Labor Secretary Vicky I. Benavente to “help” MVA while it is still looking for a new managing director, MVA Board Chair Viola Alepuyo told Variety.
“The board is very concerned about MVA and all the programs and projects that we currently have going on,” she added. “We are also very concerned about finding someone with leadership skills and experience in the tourism industry to take over as managing director.”
MVA’s current managing director, Priscilla M. Iakopo, has resigned effective Nov. 3, 2022.
Judy Torres is MVA’s deputy managing director, but she has her own responsibilities and is also doing the work of critical positions that are currently vacant, Alepuyo said.
MVA “is still looking to fill critical positions such as director of human resources, accounting, administrative services, etc.,” Alepuyo added.
“As the board has advised the Legislature during public hearings and during previous board meetings, MVA is severely understaffed because we are unable to hire qualified applicants and pay them the salary they deserve,” she said.
“Because she has previously served as MVA managing director, I asked Gov. Ralph DLG Torres if CNMI DOL Secretary Vicky Benavente could help MVA in the event it takes a while to find a new managing director,” Alepuyo said. “The governor granted my request and Ms. Benavente has graciously agreed to help MVA in whatever way she can.”
Alepuyo said during the MVA board meeting on Oct. 6, 2022, “Priscilla had to leave…to attend to some personal matters and did not return to the meeting. However, I called Priscilla and informed her about the board’s concerns and about the availability of Ms. Benavente to assist.”
Alepuyo added, “In the coming days, we will consult with Priscilla and Judy and do whatever is best to ensure there is no disruption to the programs at MVA because jumpstarting the tourism industry for our community is the most important goal for the MVA board, management and staff.”
Vicky I. Benavente
