Jeanett Vea
New York,NY
Summary
Experienced Deputy Head of Mission with 20 years in public service, including a decade at the Deputy Ambassador/CEO level. Demonstrated expertise in leading Public Service reform projects, UN Committee work, and evaluating Sustainable Development initiatives. Proficient in program evaluation, inspection supervision, and delivering high standard reports. Committed to streamlining service deliveries, promoting diversity, and upholding integrity within the UN systems.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Head of Mission
Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Tonga to the United Nations
New York, NY
11.2019 - Current
- Deputy Head of Mission for the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Tonga to the United Nations, Tonga's Embassy to the United States, along with all accredited countries, namely Canada, Chile, Mexico, the Republic of Cuba, and Venezuela.
- Assumed responsibilities of the Ambassador during his absence, serving as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.
- Represented the Kingdom of Tonga at the United Nations deliberations and negotiations in the General Assembly, Security Council, and UN 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 6th Committees.
- Managed diplomatic relations with the United States of America and accredited countries.
- Managed portfolios relating to Oceans, Climate Change and Law of the Sea.
- Advised on policy matters pertaining to multilateral affairs and bilateral engagements with all UN Member States in coordination with the Ambassador and Permanent Representative, and the Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
- Ensured effective management of diplomatic matters while advising the Ambassador and Permanent Representative on all aspects of Tonga's foreign policy towards the United Nations, United States, and all accredited countries.
- Managed all engagements on the regional interests of groups Tonga is a member of, such as the Pacific Small Islands Developing States (PSIDS), Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), the Group of 77 and China (G77 & China), and the Asia Pacific Group (APG).
- Facilitated communications amongst departments to promote synergy and improve teamwork effectiveness as the Head of Chancery.
- Promoted Tonga's political, economic, and social interests at the United Nations, the United States of America, and all accredited countries on behalf of the Government and people.
- Managed the establishment of diplomatic ties with various UN member nations.
- Responsible for multi-country accreditation including the United States of America, Republic of Cuba, Venezuela, Mexico, Chile; and Canada's High Commission in my role at the Embassy for the Kingdom of Tonga.
- Adeptly oversaw all aspects of program management, ensuring seamless coordination between the Head and members of the Tonga delegation over a span of five (5) consecutive sessions.
- Successfully led and coordinated logistical arrangements for the annual sessions (75th-79th) of the United Nations General Assembly's General Debate and High-Level Meetings
- Executed necessary responsibilities as Vice-President of UNGA79.
- Implemented engaging communication campaigns targeting stakeholders from the wider UN membership and relevant UN agencies during elections and side events.
- Built extensive collaborations with multiple UN Member States as well as numerous renowned institutional bodies within the United Nations like the ones mentioned above.
- Drafted national statements for UNGA General Debate and High-Level Meetings.
- Facilitated initiatives focusing on Climate Change, COP, Plastics among others within UN Committee work.
Deputy CEO
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
07.2017 - 10.2019
- Reviewed and enhanced Diplomatic and Consular policies.
- Developed Strategic and Corporate Plan for the Foreign Ministry
- Reviewed salaries and entitlements for Overseas Missions and Posts
- Principal adviser on human resources matters to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Heads of Division, and Senior Management.
- Developed effective and efficient systems and procedures to advance the Foreign Ministry's shared goals.
- Executed effective HR strategies by taking charge of creation and implementation of Diplomatic and Consular policies.
- Managed policy development, resourcing, contract administration of staff and ensured they were adhered to.
- Led initiatives to enhance performance management and learning within the organization.
- Developed HR Information Systems and enhanced employee relations through effective reward management techniques and change management.
Deputy CEO and Head
Workforce & Remuneration Public Service Commission
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
07.2014 - 06.2017
- Designed, implemented, and monitored the day-to-day operations of the division. Administered the Workforce and Remuneration Review Project for the Tonga Public Service.
- Managed staff performance in Workforce and Remuneration Division.
- Played an instrumental role in defining remuneration system that aligned with organizational objectives and adhered to industry standards.
- Implemented strategies to attract, develop and retain competent staff resulting in an overall improvement in workforce quality.
- Ensure that the Commission utilizes an appropriate system applicable to all posts to determine grade and remuneration.
- Crafted workforce development strategy reflecting present workforce statistics.
- Provided policy advice on Public Service instructions, policies, procedures, and regulations to line Ministries, CEOs, Public Service Commission, Cabinet, and other relevant authorities.
- Executed multiple planning activities including Tonga Strategic Development Framework, corporate plan, annual management plan and budgeting.
- Offered technical guidance on compensation trends, salary increments, structure adjustments, internal systems, post classification, resource management, and capacity development
- Crafted and implemented a range of internal systems to enhance the functionality of the Remuneration Filing Monitoring System.
- Enhanced effectiveness by implementing various monitoring systems for written correspondence, customer service, remuneration and employment benefits complaints, consultations, employee satisfaction, and follow-up.
- Led the development and execution of consultation programs, public relations strategies, and awareness initiatives for the PSC.
- Completed internal and external training focused on PSC-related matters.
Acting Deputy CEO and Head
Leadership & Policy Unit, Ministry of Justice
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
07.2012 - 06.2013
- Developed systems that enhanced the Ministry's efficiency and improved service delivery to the public.
- Developed and executed initiatives for the judicial sector, resulting in improved efficiency and effectiveness of its service delivery.
- Played a key role in driving innovation within the judicial sector by assisting in establishing the office of the Registrar General (Births, Deaths and Marriages).
- Oversaw Ministry's HRM system, guaranteeing effective implementation of staff training, development, and leave policies.
- Efficiently oversaw duties such as conducting performance reviews and monitoring employee attendance.
- Executed various planning initiatives such as the Tonga Strategic Development Framework, corporate plan, and annual Management plan and budgeting.
- Supported the Registrar General in achieving successful application processing and efficient operations.
- Enforced compliance with the Births, Deaths, and Marriages Registration Act and relevant laws.
- Managed RGO application processes while adhering to relevant laws and regulations.
- Reviewed ongoing cases, including births, deaths, and marriages, while fulfilling the role of Sub-Registrar.
- Executed a wide range of duties as required by the Births, Deaths, and Marriages Registration Act.
Senior Assistant Secretary
Reform Projects Division Public Service Commission
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
07.2009 - 06.2012
- Assisted the Head of Division with managing key reform projects such as the Public Service Remuneration Review, Organizational Review, and Public Policy Review.
- Managed capacity building, HR, information systems, and performance management.
- Coordinated and scheduled projects, while monitoring progress and providing secretariat services for Public Service Reform Project leaders.
- Supervise operations and mentor supporting staff of the Division.
- Worked on the Salary Review Reform Project, serving as its Project Manager.
- Provided advice on Public Service policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Providing valuable recommendations and insights to the Secretary of PSC regarding HR management, while ensuring compliance with established HR policies.
- Provided comprehensive reports to influential bodies such as the Public Service Commission, Cabinet, and Privy Council.
- Conducted monthly HR visits to line Ministries.
- Represented Secretary, Public Service Commission in selecting panel for recruiting public service employees.
- Facilitated coordination of employee training sessions pertaining to induction, policies and procedures on recruitment as well as HR matters.
Secretariat, Retirement Fund Board’s Elections
Government of Tonga
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
07.2011 - 10.2011
- Managed responsibilities in overseeing RFB's member representative elections by supervising a team, utilizing organizational abilities to facilitate voting process with over 3000 public servants casting their votes.
- Ensured regular updating of the Cabinet, Commission and RFB regarding Election's developments.
- Performed secretariat duties for the RFB Election Committee.
- Ensured compliance with RFB Election Procedures, 2011 for the Election process
- Coordinated with Election Officers and Assistant Election Officers to ensure adherence to election process and requirements.
- Prepared logistics and drafts of all correspondence on behalf of the Chief Election Officer and the RFB.
- Communicated updates from the Election Committee to relevant stakeholders, media included.
- Served as Secretariat to the RFB Election Appeal Committee.
Assistant Secretary
Commission Support Services Division, PSC
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
04.2004 - 06.2009
- Compiled, proofread, and prepared Commission meeting papers under the guidance of the Head of the Commission Support Services Division.
- Ensured timely and accurate submission of HR cases to the Commission.
- Provided guidance on Public Service policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Liaised and advised Secretary for PSC on HR management, aligning with HR policies.
- Prepared briefing papers for the Public Service Commission, Cabinet, and Privy Council.
- Performed selection panel duties for public service recruitment as a representative of the Secretary, Public Service Commission.
- Reviewed and compiled HR policies for the Public Service, resulting in the production of the first Public Service Policy Manual 2006 (inclusive of Diplomatic and Consular services policies).
- Advised over 2000 employees from 10 Government Ministries on HR policies and regulations.
- Updated key figures in the Tongan Government and communities through the “Fanguna” (meaning “awakening”) newspaper, regarding the progress of the Public Service Reform.
- Coordinated and allocated tasks for the publishing of the Fanguna newsletter.
- Advised CEO on HR management to ensure compliance with HR legislation.
Secretariat to the Voluntary Redundancy Task Force
Public Service Commission, PSC
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
05.2006 - 06.2006
- Provided secretariat support to the Redundancy Task Force, comprising former CEOs such as the Secretary for the Public Service Commission, Solicitor General, and Secretary for Finance.
- Organized meetings and consultation visits of the Task Force with government officials, including Honorable Ministers, CEOs, and all employees in every Government Ministry.
- Prepared briefing papers for Hon. Cabinet Ministers, based on inputs/opinions gathered from employee consultations, regarding redundancy package conditions and particulars.
- Drafted and refined instructions for the Voluntary Redundancy Program, incorporating amendments to the Redundancy Package based on concerns raised by public service employees and approved by Cabinet.
- Organized and coordinated with various line Ministries to establish the procedural guidelines for the Voluntary Redundancy Program in 2006.
Acting Principal Assistant Secretary
Commission Support Services Division, PSC
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
09.2005 - 10.2005
- Compiled, proofread, and prepared final briefing papers for the Commission and Cabinet.
- Effectively addressed complaints during a strike phase, providing regular updates to both Hon. Cabinet Ministers and Commission.
- Collaborated with the executive team to devise and execute strategic plans aligned with PSC's objectives.
- Led the development of initiatives and corresponding policies and procedures.
- Manage and direct the Commission Support Services Unit to ensure smooth functioning of operations.
- Performed additional responsibilities as Head of Commission Support Services Division.
Education
Graduate Certificate - Public Sector Management
University of the South Pacific
12.2014
Master of International Trade and Economics -
Shanghai University
People’s Republic of China07.2009
Graduate Diploma - Business
Auckland University of Technology
New Zealand03.2004
Bachelor of Business - International Business and Advertising
Auckland University of Technology
New Zealand03.2004
Skills
- Strategic leadership
- Innovation management
- Staff Development
- Collaboration
- Crisis Management
- Respect for Diversity
- Teamwork
- Developing and Applying Professional Expertise
- Accountability
Personal Details
- Gender - Female
- Nationality - Tongan
- Region - Pacific/Oceania
Key competencies
- Professional competence. Strives for excellence.
- Knowledge of inspection and evaluation and of specific areas being supervised.
- Analytical and adept at delivering program initiatives, producing high standard reports, and briefing papers on technical issues.
- Skilled in reviewing and editing the work of others.
- Committed to upholding the United Nations regulations, rules, policies and guidelines in work situations.
- Deadline and results driven.
- Respectful and inclusive professional skilled in effectively collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment of mutual respect and dignity.
- Experienced in maintaining composure under pressure and effectively resolving conflicts.
Languages
- Tongan, Native Fluent
- English, Fluent
- Chinese, General proficiency
Training
- Certificate in International Law, Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and UNESCAP, 12/01/23
- International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea Workshop, ITLOS, Hamburg, Germany, 09/01/22
- Structure, Drafting and Adoption of UN Resolutions, United Nations Institute for Training and Research, 07/01/20
- BBNJ Agreement, Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, United Nations, 03/01/20
- Certificate in Hay Group Job Evaluation Training Programme, Tonga Public Service Commission and HayGroup, 01/01/16 & 09/01/16
- Monitoring and Evaluation, Pacific Islands Centre for Public Administration, 10/01/15
- Pacific Work Attachment Program, Australian Public Service Commission, 12/01/11
- Frontline Management, AusAID In-Country Training, 03/01/05
Languages
Tonga
Native/ Bilingual
English
Professional
Chinese (Mandarin)
Limited
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Deputy Head of Mission
Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Tonga to the United Nations
11.2019 - Current
Deputy CEO
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
07.2017 - 10.2019
Deputy CEO and Head
Workforce & Remuneration Public Service Commission
07.2014 - 06.2017
Acting Deputy CEO and Head
Leadership & Policy Unit, Ministry of Justice
07.2012 - 06.2013
Secretariat, Retirement Fund Board’s Elections
Government of Tonga
07.2011 - 10.2011
Senior Assistant Secretary
Reform Projects Division Public Service Commission
07.2009 - 06.2012
Secretariat to the Voluntary Redundancy Task Force
Public Service Commission, PSC
05.2006 - 06.2006
Acting Principal Assistant Secretary
Commission Support Services Division, PSC
09.2005 - 10.2005
Assistant Secretary
Commission Support Services Division, PSC
04.2004 - 06.2009
Graduate Certificate - Public Sector Management
University of the South Pacific
Master of International Trade and Economics -
Shanghai University
Graduate Diploma - Business
Auckland University of Technology
Bachelor of Business - International Business and Advertising
Auckland University of Technology
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