Dr. William Warren Smith, CD

Warren was, to many, a distinguished leader, thinker, and steady presence in moments of change. But to me, he was also a mentor, a confidant, and a guiding force whose influence continues to echo through every decision I make as a leader.

His career was defined by a deep commitment to the Caribbean Development Bank and to the wider Region he served with vision and integrity. Beginning as a project officer in 1985, Warren rose through the ranks to become the Bank’s fifth President in 2011. Over more than three decades, he dedicated himself to strengthening the institution, returning even after a brief time away, and leading with uncompromised commitment until his retirement in 2021.

As President, Warren embodied a philosophy of shared leadership. He believed that authority should not be centralised, and he empowered his senior team to stand before the Board and help steer the institution’s direction. This approach instilled confidence, visibility, and a sense of collective purpose that continues to shape the Bank’s culture.

Warren was also a consummate regionalist. He believed in the Caribbean’s talent, ingenuity, and potential to define its own place on the global stage. He reminded colleagues that the Bank’s work was not merely financial but transformational to empower the Region to thrive.

His foresight was evident in his emphasis on technology. Under his leadership, CDB began its transition toward deeper technological integration, a move that proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of systems he championed, the Bank was able to continue serving member countries seamlessly, even in one of the most challenging periods in the Region’s history.

Warren consistently anchored the institution in its mission to transform lives. He often asked, “What does this mean for man on horseback?” to remind us that our decisions must ultimately benefit the everyday Caribbean citizen. He also left the Bank with one of its most enduring phrases: “to change the wheels while the bus is moving,” a call to adapt even as progress continues.

He recognised that no single institution could solve the Region’s challenges alone, and he positioned CDB as a bridgebuilder. He saw the Bank’s role not simply as a financier, but as a convening institution capable of attracting resources, expertise, and innovation from across the development community to better serve our people.

Warren’s legacy is one of vision, trust, and transformation. He shaped the institution, its culture, and its direction. His life’s work endures in the Bank, in the Region, and in all who continue the mission he believed in so deeply: transforming lives across the Caribbean.

Mr. Daniel M. Best 
President, CDB 

William Warren Smith ended his professional career as President of the Caribbean Development Bank. It was the end of a committed and dedicated service to the entire Caribbean in several capacities over many decades. It was a service marked by integrity, efficiency and effectiveness.

During my tenure as President of the Caribbean Development, Warren was first Director of Finance and later Vice President of Finance, performing with distinction. He was an excellent team member.

During his Presidency when he succeeded me, he ensured that the Bank remained responsive to both its borrowing member countries and its non- borrowing members. He continued the Bank´s tradition of working closely with international partners like the World Bank, InterAmerican Development Bank and the European Investment Bank, strengthening existing relationships and forging new ones. He led several vital new initiatives for sustainability of economic and social development of Caribbean countries.

The people of the Caribbean benefited from the work of Warren Smith. They remain indebted to him, to his wife Anne-Marie Irvine, and to other members of his family who shared so much of his time with us.

Professor Emeritus Compton Bourne, 
Fourth President, Caribbean Development Bank

The Bahamas expresses profound sorrow as it joins the regional and global community in mourning the loss of a towering figure in Caribbean development, Dr. William Warren Smith. His absence will be keenly felt.
 

During his tenure as the fifth President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Dr. Smith navigated a landscape marked by extreme global and regional challenges. From the lasting effects of the 2008 financial crisis to the devastating outcomes of the 2017 hurricane season and the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, he provided steady and determined leadership. He was not just a financier but a visionary dedicated to enhancing Caribbean resilience.
 

Under Dr. Smith's guidance, the CDB experienced significant transformation. He advocated for the "building back better" approach long before it became a widespread concept, ensuring that the Bank’s initiatives focused on climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure. His notable achievements include:

• Financial Mobilization: He oversaw the approval of more than US$3 billion in regional financing, including substantial grants for the most vulnerable populations.
• Institutional Governance: He established the Office of Risk Management and the Office of Integrity, Compliance, and Accountability, which enhanced the Bank's reputation with international partners.
• Regional Expansion: He successfully managed the expansion of the Bank's membership to include Brazil and Suriname, thereby increasing its reach and resources.
   

On behalf of The Bahamas Government, I extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to his wife and family. We share in your sorrow and hope that you find solace in knowing his legacy is woven into the fabric of our islands—through the infrastructure he helped develop, the communities he safeguarded, and the regional spirit he strengthened.
 

May he rest in eternal peace, and may his life continue to motivate future generations of Caribbean leaders.


Governor: Michael B,. Halkitis
Director: Simon Wilson

For the Borrowing Member Countries of the Caribbean Development Bank, the period 2011–2021 was, to say the least, tumultuous. It began under the lingering shadow of the Great Recession and closed in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic. In between, the Region endured devastating hurricanes—Sandy in 2012, Maria and Irma in 2017—earthquakes, including the haunting aftermath of Haiti’s historic 2010 seismic event, banking upheavals in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union 2011 - 2015, and the relentless, insidious degradation of our natural assets driven by climate change. Fortuitously, these years also coincided with the presidency of Dr. William Warren Smith, whose leadership reinforced and consolidated CDB’s position at the vanguard of Caribbean development.

Dr. Smith committed every facet of himself to the service of the Caribbean—his intellect and training, his vision and humility, his loyalty, his love for the Region, and his distinctive good humour. When circumstances demanded, he did not hesitate to apply sternness in pursuit of the high standards he set for himself and others. These qualities shaped his engagement with Presidents and Prime Ministers, Board members, development partners, and the man on the street alike, and they were the assets he deployed in navigating and overcoming the complex challenges faced by Borrowing and Non-Borrowing Member Countries, and by the Bank itself, during his tenure.

Though a proud son of Jamaica, Dr. Smith belonged to the entire Caribbean. He lived and worked across the Region, including in Antigua and Barbuda, where he served as Chief Executive Officer of LIAT in the 1970s. As a result, he possessed an intimate understanding of the Region—its nuances, its people, and its place in the wider world.

I still find it difficult to speak of Warren, my friend, in the past tense. I had simply assumed he would always be with us. Yet I take comfort in knowing that he lives on through his legacy: a stronger Caribbean Development Bank, a more resilient Caribbean Region, and a wide circle of friends across the globe who will continue to remember him and speak his name.

I extend my deepest condolences to his family. Ann-Marie, your name was always on his lips. May you find comfort in the many memories of that unmistakable Warren smile, and in the warmth of a life well lived and generously shared.

Whitfield Harris
Director for Antigua and Barbuda
Special Advisor
Ministry of Finance & Corporate Governance

Current and past Canadian Directors and Alternate Directors to the Board of the Caribbean Development Bank, as well as officials from Global Affairs Canada’s Caribbean Division, wish to express our heartfelt condolences on the recent passing of Dr. William Warren Smith, the Bank’s 5th President, from May 2011 to April 2021.

Dr. Smith’s long tenure as President of the Caribbean Development Bank strengthened the institution in a time of significant shocks and challenges in the region, and was instrumental in championing good governance and sound financial management, which has ensured the Bank remains a trusted development partner to Canada to this day. He epitomized Canada and the Caribbean region’s strong people-to-people ties and mutual goals of advancing sustainable development and reducing poverty in the region.

Today we join our Caribbean colleagues in thanking and celebrating Dr. William Warren Smith’s excellent leadership and commitment to public service and effective multilateralism.

Philippe Hall, Director for Canada
Katie Birks, Alternate Director for Canada
Geoff Black, former Director for Canada
Sharon Peake, former Director for Canada
Patricia McCullagh, former Director for Canada
Dorothée Roy, former Alternate Director for Canada
Matt Straub, former Alternate Director for Canada
Benoît-Pierre Laramée, former Director for Canada
Apeksha Kumar, Executive Director, Caribbean Division, Global Affairs Canada
Heather Stager, Deputy Director, Caribbean Division, Global Affairs Canada

The passing of Dr. Smith has come as a profound shock and a source of deep sorrow.

During his tenure as President of the Caribbean Development Bank, Dr. Smith embodied a leadership devoted to service and responsibility, advancing the Bank's institutional capacity and contributing significantly to the economic development and prosperity of the region.

We are sincerely grateful for Dr. Smith's efforts to further strengthen and deepen the cooperative relationship between China and the Caribbean Development Bank. In our engagements· with him, his professionalism, fairness, dedication and integrity were deeply nibving and left a lasting legacy.

At this difficult time, we sincerely extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. The loss of an exceptional leader and a kind and trusted friend is deeply felt by all who knew him.

Dr. ZHOU Yu, 
CDB Director for the People's Republic of China 

On behalf of the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica, I wish to express our profound sadness on the passing of Dr. William Warren Smith. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, his former colleagues at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and the entire Caribbean community.

Dr. Smith was a titan of regional development whose tenure as the fifth President of the CDB was defined by an unwavering commitment to the resilience of Small Island Developing States. For Dominica, Dr. Smith was more than a regional technocrat; he was a steadfast partner in our most challenging hours. Following the devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017, his leadership was instrumental in mobilizing the critical resources and technical support necessary to begin our journey toward becoming the world’s first climate-resilient nation.

He possessed a rare combination of intellectual rigour and genuine empathy. Dr. Smith understood that development was not merely about fiscal indicators, but about improving the lived reality of the Caribbean people. His advocacy for renewable energy and climate finance reform has left an indelible mark on the regional policy landscape, ensuring that our islands are better equipped to face an uncertain future.

Dr. Smith’s legacy is one of transformative service and visionary leadership. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life dedicated to the advancement of our Caribbean civilization. His contribution to the progress of Dominica and the wider region will be remembered with eternal gratitude.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Honourable Dr. Irving Mcintyre
Governor For Dominica to the Caribbean Development Bank &
Minister For Finance, Economic Development,
Climate Resilience & Social Security

It is with profound sadness that I, on behalf of the Government and people of Grenada, pay tribute to Dr. William Warren Smith, fifth President of the Caribbean Development Bank, who passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026.

Dr. Smith was a distinguished Caribbean economist and public servant whose leadership was marked by integrity, intellectual depth, and an unwavering commitment to the development of small and vulnerable states. His service reflected a deep belief in the power of strong regional institutions to improve lives across the Caribbean.

During his tenure as President of the Caribbean Development Bank (2011–2021), Dr. Smith strengthened the Bank’s partnership with Grenada. Under his leadership, CDB support contributed to post-disaster recovery, climate-resilient infrastructure, education, and social development, helping Grenada build resilience and protect hard-won development gains.

Dr. Smith understood the unique challenges confronting Grenada as a small island developing state. He consistently advocated for responsive and fairdevelopment financing, aligned with national priorities and grounded in sound economic management.

Beyond projects and programmes, Dr. Smith was a leader of quiet authority and moral clarity. He valued evidence-based decision-making, consultation, and long-term institutional strengthening. His engagement with Grenada was defined by professionalism, respect, and genuine partnership.

Grenada remains deeply grateful for Dr. Smith’s contribution to our national development and for the strength and credibility he brought to the Caribbean Development Bank. His legacy will endure in the institutions he strengthened and, in the lives, improved through his service.

May he rest in peace.

Hon. Lennox J. Andrews
Minister for Economic Development, Planning and Cooperatives; Agriculture & Lands, Forestry, Blue Economy & Marine Affairs and Governor for Grenada

The Government and People of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana extend our deepest condolences to the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) on the passing of Dr. William Warren Smith, the Bank’s fifth President.

Dr. Smith’s leadership marked a defining era in the history of the CDB and in the Caribbean’s development journey. His strong stewardship, unwavering commitment to the Region, and deep belief in the potential of the Caribbean people, strengthened the Bank’s role as a trusted and transformative development partner to the Bank’s borrowing member countries.

Guyana’s long and valued relationship with the CDB was further deepened during Dr. Smith’s tenure. Under his leadership, Guyana benefited from the Bank’s thoughtful engagement, strategic support, and shared vision for economic resilience, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

Dr. Smith’s views on Guyana’s development prospects were perhaps best captured in an interview he did in 2014 when, in a pre-oil Guyana, he described the Guyana story as inspirational.

Throughout his presidency, Dr. Smith forged a deep personal friendship with Guyana. He understood our political and developmental landscape and helped to shape our response to the challenges we faced during that period. His understanding of our development priorities, and his steady guidance contributed meaningfully to advancing our national objectives.

Dr. Smith will long be remembered as a distinguished Caribbean statesman whose life’s work was devoted to strengthening institutions, empowering countries, and improving the lives of the people of this Region. His legacy will endure through the institution he helped to strengthen, and the many lives touched by his service.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Smith’s family, his friends and colleagues, and the entire CDB family at his passing.

Guyana stands in solidarity with the CDB and the wider Caribbean community in honoring the life and legacy of an exceptional leader.

Hon. Dr. Ashni K. Singh, M.P.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President
with Responsibility for Finance
Cooperative Republic of Guyana

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Warren Smith, former President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), whose exemplary leadership and service made an enduring contribution to the institution and to the wider Caribbean region.

Dr. Smith’s ten-year tenure at the helm of the Bank stands as a powerful testament to his strategic vision and unwavering commitment to regional development. He was a consummate professional, who provided steady and thoughtful leadership that strengthened the Bank’s relevance, credibility, and impact.

He played a pivotal role in shaping the culture and values of the Caribbean Development Bank. He championed collaboration, mutual respect, and inclusiveness, promoting a strong sense of teamwork across the institution. He believed deeply in the power of people and in the collective capacity of the Caribbean to confront its challenges and build a more resilient future.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Smith will be remembered for his warm and engaging personality. His presence would light up any room, and he approached every interaction with grace, humility, and respect. He was notably calm and patient, even when challenged, particularly during Board meetings.

Dr. Warren Smith’s legacy will endure through the strengthened institution he helped to build, and the many lives touched by his leadership and service. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who mourn the loss of this distinguished Caribbean leader. May his memory continue to inspire service, integrity, and regional unity.

Ms. Dian Black, CDB Director for Jamaica

Dr. Warren Smith was one of the brightest sons of Jamaica and the Caribbean.

While I would have known him before, I really began to closely engage with Warren when I served as Jamaica’s representative to the Board of the Caribbean Development Bank from 2009 to 2011. I was a part of the Jamaican team that eventually campaigned for Warren to become the first Jamaican to serve as President of the Caribbean Development Bank, which he did from May 2011 to 2021.

He was multi-talented and served many roles. He was development practitioner, businessman, political consultant, diplomat, to name a few. He really served Jamaica and the region well.

Warren was someone with whom I enjoyed great camaraderie. I sincerely enjoyed being in his presence. Times together were stimulating, as we would often discuss wide-ranging issues, from Jamaica’s macro-fiscal progress to regional development, and global economics to geopolitical realities. And of course we would always laugh. Warren had a sense of humour that I was drawn to, being known for wit and dry humour myself.

He was a family man, and his love for and closeness to Ann Marie and his family were clear, and I also admired that about him.

I also learned in later years that we shared the distinguished alma mater, Calabar High School. In keeping with the school’s motto Warren gave his “Utmost for the Highest”.

Jamaica and the Caribbean region have lost a distinguished son.

I pray that Ann Marie and the other members of his family, the Caribbean Development Bank family, and his many friends and colleagues find comfort and strength in the Almighty God during this difficult time, and also take comfort that Dr. Warren Smith’s life was one that was well lived.
 

Wayne Henry, CD, JP, PhD
Director General, Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) and former Director for Jamaica

It is with deep respect and a profound sense of loss that I pay tribute to Dr. William Warren Smith, former President of the Caribbean Development Bank, an outstanding Caribbean technocrat, and a valued colleague and friend.

Dr. Smith and I first served together at the Caribbean Development Bank. He in the Economics and Programme Department, whilst I worked as a Project Officer / Analyst in the Projects Department. From the outset, Warren and I shared a close and collegial relationship, one marked by mutual respect, professional collaboration, and genuine camaraderie, both within the workplace and beyond it.

Our professional paths later diverged when Warren moved on to LIAT, while I returned to Montserrat to head the Economic Development Unit. Subsequently, I entered active politics. It was during this later chapter of my public life that I had the privilege of canvassing and advocating for Dr. Smith’s appointment as President of the Caribbean Development Bank.

During his tenure as President, we interacted frequently, both professionally and socially. Among the many substantive engagements, we shared were thoughtful and forward-looking discussions on solutions to the challenges confronting domestic banking systems within the region.

Dr. William Warren Smith lived a good and meaningful life, one defined by service, excellence, and a lasting contribution to regional development. His legacy will endure in the institutions he strengthened, the policies he helped shape, and the many lives he touched across the Caribbean.
Montserrat, and the wider Caribbean, are better for his service. May he rest well.

Honourable Reuben T Meade
Premier, and Minister of Finance and Economic Management 

I am honoured, although not happy, under the circumstances, to offer this tribute  on the passing of  Dr. Smith, whom I simply called "Warren".

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. William Warren Smith, whose tenure as President of the Caribbean Development Bank significantly strengthened the region’s development financing architecture. Having served as a Director of the Bank during the period when Dr. Smith assumed the Presidency, I had the privilege of engaging with him both professionally and personally.  I came to know him as a thoughtful, principled, and deeply committed development practitioner whose passion for the Caribbean was unmistakable.

Dr. Smith demonstrated that he understood both the macroeconomic and human dimensions of financing. He consistently advanced the Bank’s role as a catalyst for transformational investment, championing climate resilience, disaster risk management, infrastructure modernisation, and sound governance frameworks. Under his leadership, CDB deepened partnerships with borrowing member countries, and enhanced innovative financing solutions tailored to the realities of small island developing states.

My professional interactions with Dr. Smith often centred on how CDB could optimise its developmental impact in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Even where our perspectives differed, our exchanges were grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to advancing transformation in our region.

A defining example of Dr. Smith’s strategic foresight was his support for the modernisation of the port infrastructure in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. During the project’s early conceptualisation, financing was initially being considered through another financing institution. In discussions with Dr. Smith, I explored the potential for CDB to assume a lead financing role. His willingness to support the project demonstrated, to me, his confidence in the Bank’s capacity to deliver complex, high-value infrastructure financing. The project ultimately became, at the time, the largest capital project undertaken by CDB.

Dr. Smith’s legacy extends beyond individual projects. He strengthened CDB’s institutional relevance, reinforced its reputation as a trusted regional partner, and his leadership contributed significantly to strengthening the Caribbean’s capacity to design and finance its own development priorities.

The Caribbean has lost a visionary development advocate. I extend my sincere condolences to his wife, family, friends, and the entire Caribbean Development Bank family. May his legacy continue to inspire excellence in Caribbean development leadership.

Ms. Laura Anthony Browne, 
Former CDB Director for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and in my capacity as Governor on the Board of Governors of the Caribbean Development Bank, I extend sincere condolences to the family of Dr. William Warren Smith and to the Board, Management and staff of the Bank on his passing.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Smith exemplified principled and steady leadership at the Caribbean Development Bank. Trinidad and Tobago, as a Borrowing Member of the Bank, was truly honoured to have benefitted from his leadership during both of his terms as the fifth President. His presidency was characterised by a high degree of professionalism, careful judgement and a strong sense of responsibility to both the institution and the region it serves.

What stood out most during Dr. Smith’s tenure was not only his technical expertise but also the care and diligence he brought to every aspect of his role. He paid close attention to detail and understood the importance of ensuring that the Bank’s governance structures functioned effectively and transparently. He took deliberate steps to guide and support Members of the Board, with particular emphasis on Borrowing Member Countries. Through regular caucuses and direct engagement, Dr. Smith ensured that BMCs were constructively advised and fully equipped to participate in the Bank’s decision-making processes. This approach reflected his belief in stewardship, shared responsibility and the value of informed leadership. It also contributed to stronger relationships and a more cohesive and confident Board during his presidency.

For Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Smith was a respected development partner who recognised the importance of strong institutions, regional cooperation and solutions that reflect the realities of Caribbean economies. His leadership style was measured and thoughtful, marked by careful listening and genuine respect for differing perspectives.

Dr. William Warren Smith has left a lasting legacy at the Caribbean Development Bank and across the region. His contribution to the development of the region will continue to be felt through the institution he helped strengthen and through the lives improved by its work.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and to all who mourn his passing and we honour his life and service with gratitude.

Senator the Honourable Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh
Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development and 
Governor for Trinidad and Tobago on the Board of Governors
Caribbean Development Bank

Dr. William Warren Smith, a true Caribbean icon. I believe Dr. Smith’s love and passion for the Caribbean Region was the cornerstone of his life. His illustrious career is testimony of that love and passion where he committed to work with regional institutions to modernise and make them efficient.

When I served as the Director for Trinidad and Tobago at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) (2015-2019). I was privileged to witness Dr. Smith’s leadership and vision to create a great regional institution, which would be responsive to the needs of the Region. He led a professional team and promoted the CDB to the Borrowing Member States (BMCs) and Heads of Government as a reliable institution to whom they should turn to not only in times of need but to guide national development.  He understood that while the CDB was in the business of development it was not only a financial institution but a regional grown institution, mandated to help and support the people of the Region. He was steadfast that finance was a mere tool to improve the quality of life of the Caribbean people. He was a tough and deliberate negotiator with the financiers of the Bank but equally tough and respectful to the Caribbean Directors and Governors.

Working with Dr Smith on the Board of Directors at the CDB, he inspired professionalism, responsiveness, accountability and effectiveness amongst the staff and the Board. Effective governance and integrity were pillars on which he expected us all to operate.  

Over his tenure and whilst I served on the Board and several of its Committees, I observed his constant adaptability, letting the young professionals guide the Bank to become digital, lead in climate responsive project management and adaptability, gender responsiveness, and more accountable to its donors and beneficiaries. The emerging development actions however never eclipsed the traditional priorities, having recognised that basic needs must be met before graduating to larger more complex activities. I recalled his particular affinity to the Basic Needs Trust Fund to reach the most vulnerable. His leadership style was without question, inclusive.  He had a drive to expand the membership of the Bank, and I believe this was attributed to the importance he placed on diversity and growth.

On behalf of my family and former Directors I wish to extend deepest condolences to his family and his extended family of the CDB. May His Soul Rest in Peace. 

Ms. Joanne Deoraj, Former CDB Director for Trinidad and Tobago 

Dr. William Warren Smith, CD, served the Caribbean with distinction. His tenure as President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) was defined by a steadfast commitment to economic resilience and the strengthening of fiscal governance as critical to the advancement of Caribbean people. As a financier and a trusted partner in development policy and strategic thinking, he reinforced the CDB’s role as an essential institution and elevated the Caribbean’s voice in regional and international development discourse.

His contribution as Chairman of the Board of the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) includes ensuring the implementation of one of its most impactful and enduring initiatives, the CCRIF Technical Assistance Programme. This Programme provides scholarships, internships and other opportunities to a growing cadre of young Caribbean professionals in the increasingly critical fields of disaster risk financing, climate adaptation and ecosystem-based resilience. His leadership also advanced the Country Risk Management Programme, helping to position it as a key initiative for the region.

As his Vice-President (Operations) from 2012 - 2014, I was close witness to his vision, intellect, and integrity. He was a strong believer in good governance and institutional strengthening. He promoted transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making as vital to sustainable development and resilience building across the Region.

Above all, he championed our increasingly vulnerable Member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), through initiatives that promote economic growth, social development and stability, and ensured the institutionalisation of inclusivity and consultative processes in the development of projects and programmes within the Bank.

The Caribbean is stronger for his contributions. His impact will continue to be felt in the institutions and lives that he helped to shape.

Dr. Carla Barnett
Secretary-General, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) 

Much will be said about Warren's scholarship and curiosity of mind; his humour and quick wit; his eloquence and ease with others, his demand for excellence in himself and those he led; his visionary creativity and trademark optimism; his passion and determined focus on moving the regional agenda forward; however, what cannot be overstated was his strength of character and his integrity even when not convenient and especially, when not easy.

Mrs. Yvette Lemonias-Seale, 
Former Vice-President (Corporate Services) and Bank Secretary

It is with great sadness that I share in the loss of my esteemed former colleague and President, Dr. Warren Smith, fifth President of the Caribbean Development Bank. Dr. Smith was a beacon of excellence and would be best remembered as a trailblazer during his remarkable two decades of service with the Bank.

Dr. Smith was a natural leader and by example, led the way in the search for excellence. His resourcefulness and energy were boundless and he easily fitted the role as a champion for change. Transformation was always at the centre of his agenda and by the time he would have demitted office, the imprint of his work would have been left firmly embedded in the Bank’s operational architecture and especially in the areas of Finance and Corporate Planning.

Staff would remember him for his humility, approachability and willingness to share his expertise across the institution while his peers would remember him for his uncompromising professionalism which allowed them to view him as a reliable and trusted colleague. Dr. Smith’s impact extended well beyond the Bank, earning him esteemed recognition across the region and further afield. In his outreach, he built lasting bridges and forged meaningful connections that would endue to the Bank’s benefit.

Dr. Smith can now be added to that pantheon of distinguished Caribbean Development Finance professionals who would have served the Bank and the wider region with distinction. His memory will continue to inspire and motivate those to whom the baton has been passed.

To his wife Anne-Marie, his children and the extended family I extend, on behalf of my own family, our sincerest condolences.

May his soul Rest in Peace.

Mr. Neville L. Grainger, Former Vice-President (Finance)

It is indeed an honour to be asked to pay tribute to Dr Warren Smith, a man who inspired me and supported by career advancement within the bank. Warren was Director of the Finance and Corporate Planning Department when I joined the Bank in 2004 as Chief Policy Analyst in the Corporate Planning Division (now Corporate Strategy). From the very beginning Warren was very welcoming and generously shared his vast knowledge and experience with me.

While my primary responsibility related to supporting the preparation of the Bank’s strategic documents, Warren ensured that I approached this responsibility from the widest possible perspective.  Consequently, I was exposed to the many elements of the development banking, including how the bank was financed, both core capital and concessional funding, its lending and granting operations, its borrowing capacity and portfolio, and protection of its credit ratings.

Under Warren’s tutelage, I came to know and understand the internal operations of the institution in ways that few of my colleagues could or did experience.  In this regard Warren was a great teacher, mentor and guide. Part of the knowledge and understanding that he imparted was his inculcation in me of his own professional standards, his fierce protection of the bank’s public image, its credit ratings, and its relationships with both Borrowing and non- Borrowing Member countries and their Ministers and officials.

Warren moved on to function as Vice President Operations before assuming the Presidency, but he continued to pay keen interest in the work of the division. In 2017, Warren asked me to undertake the role of Vice President Operations.  This role was a deeply rewarding one for me and I had the opportunity to work even more closely with him and to observe first-hand his great skill at navigating the challenges facing the bank with calm and assurance. He had a very captivating personality with a great sense of humor which allowed him to engage with people at all levels. It was truly a joy working with him.  

To Ann Marie, his family and loved ones, I extend my deepest condolences. May you find comfort in the knowledge that his work mattered, his character inspired, and his memory will live on. May he rest in eternal peace and rise in Glory.

Ms. Monica La Bennett, 
Former Vice-President (Operations)
 

When I reflect on Warren’s Life I think it fair to say that he represented the best of Caribbean Human Resources.  He joined the Bank in 1985 and apart from 17 month stint at LIAT, most of the rest of his professional life was spent at the CDB retiring in 2021 after serving 2 terms as President.  

Warren’s relationships – both social and professional -  were marked by two features decency and integrity.  These qualities are essential in an effective leader and Warren exhibited them in spades.  He also displayed great strength as those of us who were exposed to his handling of the CDB’s relationship with shareholders and other international institutions, would attest.  But in some ways, more importantly, was Warren’s loyalty to family, friends and staff. I had a close personal relationship with Warren, a relationship that continued even after I retired from CDB. I deeply value that relationship and recall it frequently in these my waning years.

In my view Warren was one of the best examples of a Caribbean Professional who contributed significantly to Caribbean development. He was a real role model and greatly influenced my own professional development.

Mr. Patrick Desmond Brunton, Former Vice-President (Operations)

Dr. Smith was my colleague, and ultimately my boss. More importantly, he was my close friend. He was secure enough as a man to work with strong, opinionated women, like myself! He listened, and could be persuaded with logical argument. However, he demanded results and held you accountable.  His charisma, brilliance, integrity and humility all attributed to his success as a leader for the complex era in which he served our region. I saw in him a committed family man and a loyal and supportive friend. A man of compassion, who will be sorely missed.
 

Rest in Peace, Warren!

Mrs. Tessa Williams Robertson, 
Former Director, Projects Department

I will always be grateful his optimism, and unwavering support of efforts to drive the many priorities of the regional development agenda, in particular, the emerging priorities of climate change, climate and disaster risk finance. I will always be grateful for his positivity, generosity with his time and humour, even during the most challenging periods.

Ms. Cheryl Dixon, 
Former Head, Environmental Sustainability Unit

I first met Dr. Warren Smith approximately 42 years ago when he joined the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). He immediately earned the admiration and respect of his colleagues, with his intellect and expertise, evident in his thoughtful contributions during internal meetings.

I remember cordial exchanges in the corridors and his friendly, infectious smile, which made everyone feel comfortable. Even in those early days, he displayed confidence that garnered respect from both colleagues and the wider development community, quickly establishing himself as someone deeply committed to our region's progress. His subsequent advancement through the organisation and elevation to President of the Caribbean’s leading development institution in 2011 seemed almost inevitable.

Dr. Smith’s return to CDB in 1998 marked the beginning of our collaboration on the Bank’s strategic plan, laying the groundwork for our reunion in 2011, when he invited me to join his team upon becoming President. I am sincerely grateful for this exciting opportunity and cherish the many memories.

For ten years, we began our daily briefings over coffee he had brewed and store-bought cookies. During these moments, I gained valuable insights into the many facets of this complex individual who has had an immeasurable impact on the region he cherished and whose commitment to leveraging the CDB platform for development was unwavering.  Dr. Smith consistently encouraged team members to consider new opportunities, strategies, and measures to strengthen the Bank’s ability to support the region’s development. As a result, he responded decisively by spearheading major strategic initiatives, including establishing a Risk Management Unit at CDB when   the 2012 credit downgrade posed a significant challenge to the Bank’s operations.  In 2015, the decision by the Government of the United Kingdom to designate CDB as the implementing partner for the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF) for infrastructure projects in nine Caribbean countries was testament to the high regard with which his leadership of the Bank was regarded.

Dr. Smith’s commitment to the Region was as deep and constant as his dedication to family.   His unwavering love, respect and loyalty were on display in the photographs that adorned his office and the pride with which he spoke often about their progress and accomplishments.

May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue through his contributions and the positive impact he had on others.

Ms. Dorla Humes
Former Advisor to President Smith

Long after the headlines fade, I will remember Dr. William Warren Smith not only as an extraordinary leader and thinker but also as a steadfast, generous mentor.

I had the privilege of watching him command the attention of Heads of Government, insistent diplomats, and unrelenting journalists. Yet I also witnessed his remarkable ability to listen, connect, and share his time with staff, no matter how junior, and the everyday Caribbean citizen. Though his work was undeniably important, somehow, he never took himself overly seriously. Always humble. Never too busy.

Dr. Smith’s commitment to our Region cannot be overstated. He was optimistic about our potential, animated by our ambition, and purposeful in service to our people.

This was most clear in the wake of the devastation of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. He was resolute. He gave momentum to the message of faster, fairer financing for small, vulnerable states like ours. "It takes too long for these resources to move, given the urgency of the need," Dr. Smith told Reuters then in 2017. Many voices have since echoed and amplified that refrain.

Dr. Smith believed in the idea of Caribbean prosperity and the promise of regional integration. This belief shaped his soundbites and his interactions well beyond the halls of the Bank — and it inspired countless Caribbean professionals, including me.

I am grateful to have had a front-row seat to his steady leadership, unmatched intellect, and good humor. Every day, I am infinitely better for it.

Thank you, Dr. Smith. Rest well.

Sueann Tannis
AVP, Global Communications, United Nations Foundation
Former Head of Corporate Communications, Caribbean Development Bank

Today we are sad as we mourn the passing of a great leader, the late Dr. William Warren Smith, former President of the Caribbean Development Bank. As his Executive Secretary, and later Office Manager, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his unwavering dedication, vision, and commitment to the growth, reputation, and success of the Bank. He was more than a leader — he was a steady presence, a source of guidance, and a catalyst for meaningful change not only within the Bank but across the Caribbean region.

Dr. Smith’s resilience stood out most during some of the most challenging periods the Bank faced. Even in moments of uncertainty, he demonstrated remarkable strength, clarity, and determination, reminding those of us around him of the importance of perseverance and purpose. He led with integrity, high standards, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people and communities the Bank served. His expectations were clear, and his commitment to excellence pushed all of us to grow professionally and personally.

I will always remember how he empowered the small team within his office. He trusted us with responsibility, encouraged us to think critically, and supported us in developing confidence in our work. He believed in preparation and professionalism — and yes, he truly did not like to be embarrassed — but behind that expectation was a genuine desire for all of us to succeed and represent ourselves and the institution with pride. I remain forever grateful for the lessons he taught me and the opportunities he provided during my time on his team.

Beyond his leadership, Dr Smith possessed a wonderful sense of humour that brought warmth and balance to even the busiest days.  His memorable sayings - like "happy like pappy" and "dress to puss back foot" - still echo in my mind and always bring a smile to me.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy and passion, integrity and commitment will continue to inspire us. My deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

Dr. Smith has left an indelible mark on all of us, and his influence will not be forgotten.

Valerie O Jones, Former Office Manager, President's Office

Dr. Smith was a visionary Caribbean leader and an exemplary professional, who consistently placed the interests of the Region, its people and the institution above his own. He was deeply committed to excellence in public service and held himself and those around him to the highest standards. He was also generous with his time and wisdom, always willing to mentor and support the next generation of Caribbean leaders and professionals. His stewardship strengthened the Bank and his guidance shaped many who will continue his work.

Mr. Selwin Hart, 
United Nations Special Adviser and Assistant Secretary-General for the Climate Action Team