Malcolm Couch, the Isle of Man Government’s current Assessor of Income Tax, will be its next Chief Financial Officer.  He will take over the Treasury position when Mark Shimmin steps down at the end of April.
 
Dr Couch has been Assessor for the last 8 years and has played a major role in the development of the Island’s tax regime and its international reputation.  Commenting on his appointment he said,
 
“I am pleased and honoured to have been offered this important role and will seek to fulfil it energetically and to the best of my ability.  The Island faces significant economic and financial challenges, but does so from a strong base.  I am confident that, working with colleagues across Government and building on my effective working relationships with the private sector, we can continue to forge ahead and deal with those challenges professionally and enthusiastically.”
 
Treasury Minister Eddie Teare M.H.K. said,
 
“I welcome Malcolm’s appointment.  I have worked closely with him since my appointment as Treasury Minister and have every confidence that he will prove to be a worthy successor to his predecessors.  He has been at the heart of Treasury and Government’s response to internal and external pressures over the last 8 years and has shown himself to be a thoroughly professional and hard working officer, with an innovative and inclusive approach.  His appointment today will allow a smooth hand over period until Mark Shimmin retires later in the year.  I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks to Mark for his hard work and support to me and previous Treasury Ministers over many years.  Whilst his departure is a loss both for Government and me, I look forward to working more closely with Malcolm in the future.”