The newly appointed Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Benedict Y. Harleyson, has officially assumed office with a commitment to promote humility, strengthen teamwork, and build a results-oriented culture aimed at improving the performance of every employee within the ministry.
Speaking during a formal handover ceremony, Harleyson expressed gratitude to the staff of the ministry for the warm reception and commended the Department of Administration for maintaining stability, efficiency, and continuity during the leadership transition.
Reflecting on his professional journey, Harleyson described his return to a senior leadership role at the ministry as a deeply personal moment, recalling his long history with the institution and the role it played in shaping his career.
He referred to himself as “one of the babies of this ministry,” recalling that he joined the MFDP in 2007 as a cadet and gradually rose through the ranks through years of experience, mentorship, and dedication.
“I grew up in this ministry,” Harleyson said. “Like a child becoming a father, this institution made me who I am.”
The new Deputy Minister emphasized that although leadership changes over time, the core mission of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning remains unchanged — serving the Liberian people through effective public financial management and national development coordination.
He encouraged employees at all levels, including janitors, interns, directors, and senior administrators, to recognize that every position contributes to the overall success of the ministry.
“We are all on the same boat. Every role matters,” Harleyson stated.
Harleyson stressed the importance of humility in leadership, noting that public office should not be viewed as a symbol of personal authority but rather as an opportunity to serve and support national development.
According to him, effective leadership requires openness, teamwork, and a willingness to listen to ideas and concerns from colleagues.
He described himself as an approachable and open-minded leader who values performance and commitment over titles and positions. He encouraged staff members to provide constructive feedback and view difficult assignments as opportunities for professional growth and development.
The new Deputy Minister also urged senior officials at MFDP to prioritize mentorship by guiding younger employees and preparing the next generation of public servants.
Harleyson recalled that mentorship played a significant role in his own career development and said experienced officials have a responsibility to transfer knowledge and institutional experience to emerging leaders.
He further emphasized that stronger collaboration among departments within the ministry would improve efficiency, strengthen institutional capacity, and enhance service delivery to the Liberian public.
The handover ceremony was marked by the formal transfer of responsibilities from Assistant Minister for Administration Paul T. Lamin, who congratulated Harleyson on his appointment and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supporting the ministry’s goals and objectives.
Lamin presented the second-quarter administrative report and official turnover documents to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure continuity in the department’s operations.
Representing Minister of Finance and Development Planning Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Chief of Staff Philajua Boima praised Harleyson’s professional experience, integrity, and institutional knowledge, describing his appointment as a reflection of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s confidence in his leadership abilities.
Boima encouraged MFDP staff to provide Harleyson with the necessary cooperation and support as he begins his tenure.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning Tenneh G. Brunson described the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning as a “family home” where collaboration, teamwork, and continuous learning are essential to effective leadership.
She expressed confidence that Harleyson’s leadership would further strengthen the ministry’s workplace culture and contribute to improved performance.
Benedict Y. Harleyson succeeds Bill McGill Jones, who has been appointed as Deputy Minister of State for Administration at the Executive Mansion.
Harleyson’s appointment comes at a time when the MFDP continues to play a central role in implementing the government’s development agenda, coordinating national budgeting processes, and strengthening public financial management systems.
