Michael Munroe has been named as the new Director of Guyana’s Local Content Secretariat, succeeding Dr. Martin Pertab, who recently took the position of Chief Executive Officer at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).
Dr. Pertab, appointed Director in February 2022, played a pivotal role in establishing and guiding Guyana’s local content framework during its initial development. His new appointment to CH&PA was announced on September 22, and he was officially welcomed by Director of Operations Denise King-Tudor and other senior officials.
He inherits leadership of the CH&PA, an agency under the Ministry of Housing and Water, at a time when the government is significantly expanding its land and housing infrastructure programs.
Michael Munroe, formerly a Legal Officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources, steps into his new role amid government plans to amend the Local Content Act. The proposed changes seek to tighten the definition of a ‘Guyanese company,’ potentially requiring local shareholders to reside in Guyana and demonstrate tax contributions. Additionally, the First Schedule—which lists services required to be provided by Guyanese firms—is set to be expanded.
These amendments aim to prevent fronting practices that weaken the Act’s purpose and to enhance opportunities for Guyanese citizens and businesses, particularly within the growing oil and gas sector.
