📚 Cayman Islands Intellectual Property Office appoints first Caymanian IP examiner

The Cayman Islands Intellectual Property Office (CIIPO) has announced the appointment of Omara Whittaker as its new IP examiner. Whittaker, the first Caymanian to hold the position, has been promoted from her previous role as IP registry officer. She has undergone extensive training, including a paralegal certification and trademark examination training by the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO). She is also currently enrolled in an online training programme in trademark examination offered by the EU IPO. 🎓

Whittaker began her new duties on 22 July. CIIPO Director Candace Westby praised her for her drive, reliability, efficiency, and exemplary work ethic, stating that her addition to the examination team will enhance the office's capacity to serve its customers. Whittaker's appointment is the result of a strategic professional development plan, according to Ministry Chief Officer Dr Dax Basdeo. He expressed pride in the CIIPO team's work to prepare Whittaker for her new role and congratulated her on her achievement. 🏆

Whittaker began her career with the Cayman Islands Government in 2006 in the General Registry’s corporate unit. She moved to the vital records division in 2008 and joined CIIPO’s patents and trademarks section in 2015. Speaking about her new role, Whittaker said that it signifies recognition of her work over the years and motivates her to continue striving for excellence. She expressed gratitude to her director, colleagues, and the Ministry of Financial Services and Commerce for their support. 🙏