Veteran public servant V. Theresa Burrows dies

V. Theresa Burrows, a veteran public servant and senior Human Resources executive, has died after a battle with cancer.

Burrows most recently served in senior leadership at the National Insurance Board (NIB), where she held the post of Deputy Director with responsibility for Human Resources and Training.

In 2016, she served as Senior Deputy Director with oversight for Buildings, Security and Business Support Services.

She also served as Acting Director of NIB, and in that capacity signed an industrial agreement with the Union of Public Officers in July 2016.

Former colleagues described Burrows as direct and decisive, yet genuine and loyal.

She was known for her quick wit and strong people skills.

Before joining NIB, Burrows rose through the ranks at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company, advancing to supervisory roles before being appointed Human Resources Director. She later served as Human Resources Director at the Water and Sewerage Corporation.

Burrows also held one of the highest posts in the public service, serving as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security under then-minister Frank Watson.

Her corporate experience also included service as a board member of Cable Bahamas Ltd., to which she was appointed in 2015.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Burrows was known among friends and colleagues as an exceptional cook, gracious host and animal lover who valued family and friends.

May she rest in peace