Cabinet Announces Three New Chief Executive Appointments

APIA, Samoa – 31 July 2026 — The Government of Samoa has announced three key Chief Executive Officer appointments following Cabinet approval, strengthening leadership across the country's public sector institutions.

The appointments include the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the newly established District Development Authority, as well as new chief executives for the Development Bank of Samoa and the Samoa Shipping Corporation.

Inaugural CEO for District Development Authority

Cabinet has appointed Unasa Viane Faifuaina Toala as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the District Development Authority for a three-year term.

Mr. Toala brings extensive experience in public service, having previously led the implementation and oversight of the Government's Million Project, which now falls under the responsibility of the newly established Authority.

He holds a Diploma in Tropical Agriculture, a Bachelor of Agriculture, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture from the University of the South Pacific. He also holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Executive Leadership from the National University of Samoa.

At 42 years of age, his appointment reflects Cabinet's confidence in his leadership, professional expertise, and commitment to advancing the Government's district development priorities.

New Leadership for Development Bank of Samoa

Cabinet has also approved the appointment of Tamaletā Taimang Jensen as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Development Bank of Samoa (DBS) for a three-year term.

Tamaletā brings extensive leadership and governance experience, having previously served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Development Bank of Samoa and Chairman of the Government's Fono Fa'avae Project.

He holds a Bachelor of Business Studies, a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Studies, and a Master of Business Studies from Massey University in New Zealand.

He succeeds Muā'autau Raiē Silipa, who previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the Development Bank of Samoa.

Samoa Shipping Corporation Appoints New CEO

Cabinet has further approved the appointment of Tau'ili'ili Vaelua Sonny Brown as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Samoa Shipping Corporation (SSC) for a three-year term.

A long-serving member of the Corporation, Mr. Tau'ili'ili brings extensive experience in the maritime sector and has dedicated many years of service to Samoa's national shipping authority.

He holds a Bachelor of Vocational Studies and a Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies from the National University of Samoa, in addition to numerous specialised professional certifications in marine engineering obtained both in Samoa and overseas.

Mr. Tau'ili'ili succeeds Leiātaua Samuel Phineas as Chief Executive Officer.

The three appointments form part of the Government's ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership within key public institutions responsible for district development, financial services, and maritime transport, with each appointment taking effect for an initial term of three years.