Former Commissioner of Police, Major General (Retired) Antony Anderson, has been appointed as Jamaica’s Ambassador-designate to the United States of America and Permanent Representative-designate to the Organisation of American States (OAS).
He replaces Ambassador Audrey Marks, who resigned and was subsequently appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, who made the announcement today.
“We are very pleased that Major General Anderson will assume this role at a time when Jamaica looks to strengthen its security partnerships,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, in making the announcement on Thursday.
“His leadership and expertise will also be critical in advancing Jamaica’s wider priorities, fostering deeper collaboration with the United States while engaging strategically within the OAS. He will build on the strong foundation laid by Ambassador Audrey Marks, whose service has been instrumental in advancing our bilateral agenda,” Johnson Smith continued.
The Ministry stated that Anderson is expected to take up his post in Washington, D.C., imminently.
It noted that Anderson brings decades of experience in defence, security, and strategic leadership.
He previously served as Chief of Defence Staff of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) before becoming Jamaica’s first National Security Advisor, where he played a critical role in shaping national security policy and international cooperation.
As Commissioner of Police, he spearheaded modernization efforts in the Jamaica Constabulary Force, advancing technology integration and organisational reform to enhance public safety and law enforcement.
“Anderson’s appointment reflects Jamaica’s broader diplomatic approach, which emphasizes experienced leadership in key ambassadorial roles. With a strong background in regional security coordination, Major General Anderson has facilitated joint security initiatives across the Caribbean, advised governments on national security frameworks, and led multinational security operations.”
He holds a Master of Defence Administration from the Royal Military College of Science, Shrivenham, and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Cranfield University in the United Kingdom.