Desdra Bascombe is a distinguished professional with a strong academic background and extensive experience in public administration and human resources. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in History and Social Sciences at the University of the West Indies (U.W.I.), St Augustine Campus, followed by a Master’s degree in Sociology at the same campus. Desdra further expanded her expertise by earning an MBA from U.W.I. Mona campus.

Her career began at the Service Commissions Department, where she spent 15 years in various Human Resources roles, ultimately becoming Senior Human Resources Officer. She then served as Director of Public Management at the Ministry of Public Administration and Information from 2003 to 2007. Throughout her career, Desdra enhanced her skill set by completing numerous short courses in Project Management, Human Resources Development, Process Improvement, and other key areas.

In 2007, Desdra took on the role of Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of National Security, later becoming Acting Permanent Secretary. Her career trajectory continued at the Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism in 2012, where she served as Acting Permanent Secretary, and later at the Office of the Prime Minister. By the end of 2014, she was appointed Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Food Production. In September 2015, Desdra was reassigned to her current role as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Desdra Bascombe is an avid advocate for the arts, particularly for pan and parang music. She is especially passionate about Christmas, when she has the opportunity to showcase her musical talents with Los Paranderos de UWI, a group that brings the festive spirit to life with vibrant performances.