Expression of Interest

Chairperson & Members – Cook Islands National Infrastructure Committee

CIIC is seeking an experienced leader to chair the Cook Islands National Infrastructure Committee and experienced individuals from the private sector to provide private sector representation on the Committee.

The Infrastructure Committee (IC) is a Cabinet-appointed committee that brings together government, private sector and community expertise to help shape infrastructure priorities and oversee public capital investments that support the long-term development of the Cook Islands.

The Chairperson provides independent leadership, and guides the Committee’s work. Members bring their experience and judgement to discussions and collective decisions. Together, they help keep infrastructure planning, project delivery, risks and long-term value for Rarotonga and the Pa Enua in focus.

Key Responsibilities:

The Chairperson will:

• Lead Infrastructure Committee meetings fairly and effectively.
• Ensure all members can participate and contribute to decision-making.
• Guide the Committee towards clear, evidence-based decisions.
• Oversee the consideration of project scope, costs, risks, procurement and delivery.
• Ensure decisions, actions and responsibilities are clearly recorded and followed up.
• Escalate significant risks, delays and unresolved matters where necessary.
• Ensure conflicts of interest are declared and properly managed.
• Maintain the independence, integrity and credibility of the Committee.
• Support effective collaboration between government, private-sector and community representatives.

Members will:

• Prepare for and attend Committee meetings.
• Review infrastructure proposals and progress reports, including project scope, costs, risks, procurement and delivery.
• Ask questions and seek further information when needed to make informed decisions.
• Contribute constructively to discussions and decisions in the national interest.
• Consider infrastructure needs across Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.
• Complete assigned actions and follow the Committee’s confidentiality and conflict-of-interest requirements.

What We’re Looking For:

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Infrastructure Experience: Experience in infrastructure planning, governance or project delivery, with an understanding of budgets, procurement, risks and implementation.
• Leadership: Proven experience chairing boards, committees or senior decision-making groups.
• Sound Judgement: The ability to assess complex information and make decisions in the national interest.
• Integrity: Independence, impartiality and a commitment to acting in the national interest.
• Local knowledge: A sound understanding of the Cook Islands, including the infrastructure needs and delivery challenges of the Pa Enua.
• Commitment: Sufficient availability to prepare for and attend meetings, respond to urgent matters and follow up important decisions.

Chairperson applicants should also have board or committee experience and a proven ability to chair meetings, manage different views and guide a group towards clear decisions.
Member applicants should have board or committee experience and be able to contribute effectively to collective decision-making.
A relevant qualification in infrastructure, engineering, construction, finance, governance, project management or a related field is desirable. Equivalent professional or practical experience, demonstrated expertise and relevant industry knowledge will also be considered.

Why This Role Matters?
This is an opportunity to play a significant role in shaping the future of infrastructure in the Cook Islands. The Chairperson and members will help strengthen the review and oversight of infrastructure projects and support public investment that delivers lasting value for Cook Islands people, communities and economy.
Successful candidates will be appointed in accordance with the Cook Islands National Infrastructure Committee Terms of Reference.

How to Submit an Expression of Interest:
Applicants should submit:

• a current curriculum vitae;
• a brief statement identifying whether they are applying for Chairperson, member, or both and outlining their suitability, availability; and
• examples of infrastructure projects they have helped plan or deliver, including their specific contribution.

Applications should be emailed to mereani.talbot@cookislands.gov.ck by 25th October, 2026.

For further details, please review the attached Chairperson Role Description and Appointment Process and Member Role Descriptions and Appointment Process.

---