The recruitment process of seeking a Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.) for the newly established Ministry of Sports and Recreations (M.S.R.) has commenced. 

Advertised in a special issue by the Samoa Public Service Commission, potential candidates have until 9 July to apply. 

The selected candidate will lead the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, overseeing sports development, recreation programs, management of sports facilities and equipment, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations under the Public Finance Management Act 2001.

The CEO appointment is a three-year contract with a competitive salary ranging from $121,414 to $125,828, accompanied by additional benefits and allowances. 

Ideal candidates are expected to possess a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Public Administration, or related fields, with postgraduate qualifications considered advantageous. Leadership experience and a strategic vision for innovation in sports governance are also key criteria.

Minister of Sports and Recreation, Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell expressed enthusiasm for advancing the recruitment process, emphasising the importance of filling the CEO role to drive the ministry's operations forward effectively. 

A total of $8.2 million has been allocated for the establishment of the new ministry in the forthcoming budget. from the total of $18 million allocated for establishing three new ministries. 

This development comes following the establishment of the ministry last year under the current administration's strategic realignment of cabinet portfolios.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa initiated the reshuffle to bolster Samoa's commitment to sports and recreation, appointing Laumatiamanu as the inaugural Minister for Sports and Recreation. 

Since then, the ministry has operated from the headquarters of the Ministry of Education and Culture (M.E.C.) in Malifa, utilising resources from the latter for its sports division.

The Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Education and Culture, A'eau Chris Hazelman has also been serving the two ministers since last November.