Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In an advertisement posted, starting yesterday on its website, the American Samoa TeleCommunication Authority (ASTCA) is looking to hire a new chief executive officer, who will work closely with the ASTCA board of directors, serving as the primary link between the divisions of the company.

The CEO position is accountable for the overall success and impact of the organization, including strategic planning and implementation; financial oversight and promote the development and growth of ASTCA, according to the position summary.

The job posting also describes principal job duties — such as directing the company in keeping with the vision outlined for the organization by the board of directors; and overseeing areas of operations and adhering to sound business principles in managing activities that generate income, monitoring internal controls and promoting economic growth.

While the salary is not included in the job posting, there is minimum requirements for the position: Bachelors degree in business administration, finance, accounting or similar disciplines;10 years plus in executive management demonstrating board engagement expertise and experience; advanced knowledge of regulatory and economic requirements; and a minimum of 10 plus years service in management within the telecommunications industry.

Deadline to submit an application is May 28th. A new CEO, will replace former ASTCA boss Falavaoto Sualevai, who first served as chief financial officer, then chief operations officer, before being selected as CEO of the government owned telecom provider.

In a joint statement with the Governor’s Office, the ASTCA board of directors announced in March this year the selection of Chuck Leota as the new acting CEO, effective Mar. 24th. (See Samoa News edition Mar. 26th for details.)

Gov. Lemanu Peleti Palepoi Sialega Mauga in January this year appointed the new ASTCA board, headed by former ASTCA chief executive officer, Aleki Sene Jr. (chair) and members  Alofagia Nomura, Tauilagi Mauga, Omar Shalout, Sen. Utu Sila Poasa, Sofa Seumalo and Tuni Tauiliili.

Boards members, who were appointed by the governor are not subject to Fono confirmation as ASTCA still operates under an executive order issued some 20-plus years ago.

The job posting for the CEO post comes amid many in the community asking as to when a new CEO will be hired, as the government is heading towards the new fiscal year 2022, which starts on Oct. 1, 2021.