Ambassador Audrey Marks has been appointed to the Senate.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement in a statement this afternoon.

Ambassador Marks, Jamaica’s former Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American states, brings a wealth of experience in diplomacy, business, and public service to her new role.

She was Jamaica’s first female Ambassador to the USA and the only individual to have served in this role three times across two different administrations.

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.

Beyond diplomatic achievements, Ambassador Marks has an exemplary record as an entrepreneur and business leader.

She is the founder of Paymaster Jamaica Limited, which started in 1997.

The Prime Minister congratulated Ambassador Marks on her appointment, saying he looks forward to her continued contributions to nation building through her service in the senate.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith says Major General (Retired) Antony Anderson will be Jamaica’s next Ambassador to the USA.

Anderson, a former Police Commissioner, will also serve as Permanent Representative-designate to the OAS.

Major General Anderson is expected to take up his post in Washington DC imminently.

In a statement, Mrs. Johnson Smith notes the timing of his appointment.