Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness appointed Ambassador Audrey Marks to the Senate. Marks, Jamaica’s former ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), contributed a variety of corporate, diplomatic, and public service expertise to her new position, according to a statement released by Holness.
Marks is the first female ambassador from Jamaica to the United States and the first person to hold this position three times in two separate governments.
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She noted, “Her extensive experience in strengthening Jamaica-USA bilateral relations and advocating for Jamaica’s interests at the OAS will be invaluable in her new role in national policy and legislative development.”
He continued, “Beyond her diplomatic achievements, Ambassador Marks has an exemplary record as an entrepreneur and business leader. As the founder of Paymaster (Jamaica) Limited, she revolutionized Jamaica’s financial services sector by introducing one of the world’s first internet-based multi-payment systems. Her success in business, including ventures in agriculture, transportation, and real estate, has earned her numerous awards and recognitions both locally and internationally.”
The University of the West Indies in Mona awarded Marks a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, and Nova Southeastern University in Florida, USA, awarded him a Master of Business Administration.
In addition to becoming the first female president of the American Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica, she has served on more than 20 national and international boards over her illustrious career.
Marks received the Order of Jamaica (OJ) in honor of her exceptional contributions to the social and economic advancement of Jamaica.
Additionally, she has received honorary doctorates in law from Northern Caribbean University and the University of the West Indies.
Holness stated that he anticipates her ongoing service in the Senate and her contributions to the development of the country.
