The Ministry of District Administration and Home Affairs (MDAHA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Marlon Bodden as Director of the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control Service (CBC), effective 1 July 2026, following a competitive and open recruitment process.
Mr. Bodden brings more than three decades of distinguished public service and law enforcement experience to the role, including over ten years in border security, customs administration, and organisational leadership within the Cayman Islands Government. He currently serves as Deputy Director (Management Support Services) at CBC, where he supports the strategic and operational leadership of the organisation. His portfolio includes responsibility for Training and Workforce Development, Sister Islands Operations, Investigations, Anti-Money Laundering and Professional Standards, and other critical operational and corporate functions, positioning him well to lead CBC into its next chapter.
Commenting on the appointment, Minister for District Administration and Home Affairs, Hon. Nickolas DaCosta said:
"Mr. Bodden's appointment reflects his proven leadership, extensive and unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the people of the Cayman Islands. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and a strong dedication to public service. I am confident that under his leadership, the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control Service will continue to strengthen its vital role in protecting our borders, supporting legitimate trade and travel, and safeguarding our national interests. Together, we are shaping a stronger, safer Cayman Islands, and I look forward to working with Mr. Bodden as he leads CBC into its next chapter"
Mr. Bodden holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Diploma in Legal Studies from the University of Liverpool. He has also completed the prestigious International Commanders Programme through Bramshill Police College and the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom, earning a Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership. In addition, he completed the Criminal Justice Education Course through the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia, in partnership with the University of Virginia, and is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS). He has also undertaken specialised executive training in Risk-Based Management in the Customs Context through the Centre for Customs and Excise Studies in Australia. He is currently pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree at Liverpool John Moores University.
Acting Chief Officer for the Ministry of District Administration and Home Affairs, Ms. Debbie-Ann Whittaker, welcomed the appointment:
"The Ministry extends its congratulations to Mr. Bodden on his appointment, which represents the successful development of internal talent and provides continuity as CBC continues to modernise its operations, strengthen border security, and enhance service delivery. We look forward to working closely with him to advance the strategic priorities of the Ministry and the Government.
We also take this opportunity to express our appreciation to outgoing Director Bruce Smith for his many years of dedicated service and leadership, and for his significant contribution to strengthening Customs and Border Control and advancing border security in the Cayman Islands.”
Reflecting on the appointment, Outgoing Director of Customs and Border Control Service, Mr. Bruce D. Smith, said:
"Having worked closely with Marlon over many years, I have seen firsthand his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the mission of CBC. He is a respected leader whose contributions have strengthened the organisation and advanced our intelligence-led approach to border security.
As I conclude my tenure as Director, I am confident that CBC will continue to thrive under his leadership. Marlon possesses the experience, vision, and integrity needed to lead the organisation into the future, and I congratulate him on this well-deserved appointment."
Throughout his career, Mr. Bodden has demonstrated exceptional leadership in intelligence-led border management, international law enforcement cooperation, anti-money laundering initiatives, and organisational development. He has successfully led major operational and policy initiatives, strengthened partnerships with local and international agencies, and overseen critical programmes designed to modernise border operations and build workforce capability.
Mr. Bodden has served in several senior leadership capacities throughout his career and has represented CBC in national and international forums addressing anti-money laundering, illicit finance, sanctions implementation, and border security cooperation. His work has contributed significantly to enhancing the Cayman Islands' reputation as a secure, well-regulated jurisdiction that meets international standards.
As Director, Mr. Bodden will provide strategic leadership for CBC, overseeing the organisation's efforts to protect the Cayman Islands' borders, facilitate lawful trade and travel, collect and safeguard government revenue, and strengthen public safety and national security.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Bodden said:
"I am honoured to be appointed Director of Customs and Border Control Service and grateful for the confidence placed in me. CBC plays a critical role in protecting our borders, supporting economic prosperity, and maintaining public trust. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated officers, government partners, and international stakeholders to continue strengthening our capabilities, embracing innovation, and ensuring that CBC remains responsive to the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the Cayman Islands.
Together, we will continue to build a modern, intelligence-led organisation that protects our borders, supports legitimate trade and travel, develops our people, and delivers excellence in service to the public."