May 14, 2009 — Conrad E. “Ricky” Francois was tapped to be new director of the Virgin Islands Lottery when Gov. John deJongh, Jr. sent his nomination down for the advice and consent of the Legislature.
Francois will fill the vacancy created in March 2008 when former director Paul Flemming resigned. If confirmed, Francois will fill the shoes of Lenyse Shomo, who deJongh appointed acting director upon Flemming's departure. (See "Lottery Chief Flemming Is Out).")
“The nomination of Conrad Francois, coupled with the recent Senate confirmation of Finance Commissioner Angel Dawson, who also serves as chairman of the Lottery Commission, will bring new and permanent leadership to the Virgin Islands Lottery at a time when all efforts are being made to reinvigorate the state run game of chance in the Virgin Islands,” deJongh said Wednesday. “Mr. Francois and I have had candid discussions about areas of the Lottery that are in need of immediate attention and I anticipate that corrective action will be taken to ensure the continued success of the Lottery.”
In a government house statement, DeJongh said Francois’ demonstrated experience and knowledge in project management and policy development in key areas such as finance, accounting, auditing and administration of programs for the economically disadvantaged underscores a career that has been focused on making a positive difference in the Territory.
Francois has served as executive director of the V.I. Housing Authority, associate director of the Office of Management and Budget, director of Property and Procurement at the V.I. Housing Authority and director of the Comprehensive Employment Training Act Program. He holds a master’s degree in business administration from Tulane University and a bachelor of arts degree in economics from Lincoln University.
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