After 44 years of public service, retiring Deputy Governor and Head of the Cayman Islands Civil Service Franz Manderson has ruled out a move into politics, saying his focus in retirement will be on family, friends and finding meaningful ways to continue contributing.

Manderson officially retired on July 7, 2026, marking the end of a distinguished career that began when he joined the Immigration Department at age 16 as an hourly paid worker.

Retirement

Reflecting on his final day as a civil servant, Manderson said retiring as Deputy Governor and Head of the Civil Service gave him a strong sense of achievement, while also leaving him with deep gratitude for the support and respect he received throughout his career.

“Retiring today as Deputy Governor and the Head of the Civil Service gives me a great sense of achievement, but also a lot of gratitude for the love and respect that I have received from my staff, from my dear civil servants, and the public,” Manderson said.

He thanked the people of the Cayman Islands for their support throughout his career, saying: “Today, I thank the entire Cayman Islands for their support of me during my time as a civil servant, for their blessings, and for their prayers.”

Looking ahead, Manderson said he planned to step away from the demands of public office and spend more time with his family and friends.

“My next steps are to not adhere to any schedules, to spend some quality time with my dear wife and my mum and my sister and my children, and to be a more present friend to some of the people that I grew up with,” he said.

While he expects he will eventually find a new way to stay engaged, Manderson ruled out entering politics.

“I will, of course, at some point, try to find something to keep me busy. It will not be politics, but it will be something that I can give back to or something that I can add value to,” he said.

Tributes

Manderson’s retirement has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, with leaders recognising his contribution to the Cayman Islands Civil Service and wider public administration.

Premier André Ebanks MP, recently paid tribute to Manderson in Parliament, highlighting the qualities he said defined Manderson’s leadership as Deputy Governor.

The Premier remarked how Manderson’s “commitment, leadership, thoughtfulness and foresight” represented what people valued in him during his time leading the Civil Service.

The Cayman Islands Government also recognised Manderson’s role in shaping the modern Civil Service, noting that during his 14 years as Deputy Governor, the organisation grew to approximately 5,000 staff members managing a budget of more than CI $1.1 billion.

His tenure included reforms focused on accountability, legislation and workforce development, while strengthening the Civil Service’s reputation as an employer of choice.

The Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition, Joey Hew MP also extended congratulations and best wishes to Manderson, recognising his decades of service.

“While we may not always have shared the same perspectives on every issue, there can be no question that his dedication to serving the people of these Islands has been evident throughout his career,” the Opposition Leader said. Adding that Manderson’s legacy would be reflected not only in the policies and systems he helped develop, but also in the public servants whose careers he encouraged, guided and inspired.

New dawn to rise

As he begins retirement, Manderson leaves office after more than four decades of service, with recognition from both government and opposition for a career marked by leadership, dedication and a lasting contribution to the Cayman Islands. He passes the baton to Gloria McField-Nixon, who makes history as the first woman to serve as Deputy Governor and Head of the Civil Service. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the Cayman Islands and the beginning of a new chapter for the country's public service, building on the strong foundation established during Manderson's tenure.