Gina Tomlinson-Williams, currently Director of Organizational Development and Change at Jamaica Public Service (JPS), has charted a remarkably unconventional career trajectory that began in classroom education rather than corporate halls. Her professional journey—spanning roles as regional auditor, customer service manager, and strategic planner—demonstrates the power of adaptability and purpose-driven career evolution.
Speaking at a STEM workshop hosted by the University of the West Indies, Mona—where she once studied—Tomlinson-Williams shared insights from her nonlinear path. The event, part of a $16 million partnership between UWI and JPS Foundation, offered reduced-cost STEM preparation for Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Exam students, lowering fees from $5,000 to $1,500 for five years.
Addressing fifth- and sixth-form students, the executive emphasized the growing disadvantage of single-specialization careers. ‘Many organizations now seek professionals with multidimensional backgrounds,’ she advised, urging openness to diverse opportunities. ‘The world needs people willing to ask better questions, test bold ideas, and learn from failure.’
Tomlinson-Williams’ own academic journey included a first degree in General Physics and Electronics, followed by a master’s in Computer-Based Management Systems—a program she jokingly called herself a ‘guinea pig’ for. Her professional development accelerated through roles at New Horizon Computer Learning Centre and Carreras, where she gained exposure to manufacturing, IT, business processes, and HR before joining JPS in 2007.
Her path wasn’t without challenges. A major car accident forced her to relearn walking, followed by redundancy at Carreras. These experiences, she noted, profoundly shaped her perspective: ‘Having worked and returned to do that master’s was a game-changer. The maturity you bring to learning when paying from your own pocket creates stark difference.’
Now celebrating nearly 20 years at JPS, where she has held positions from business analyst to her current executive role, Tomlinson-Williams credits her Carreras experience during British American Tobacco’s acquisition for teaching her international organizational standards and processes.
The 47-year-old executive, mother of twin toddlers, shared three critical professional principles that guide her: adaptability, commitment to continuous learning, and cultivated empathy. ‘I had to learn to think from customers’ perspectives and understand their expectations,’ she reflected.
Beyond corporate responsibilities, Tomlinson-Williams finds fulfillment in mentoring through JPS Foundation’s programs and personal coaching. ‘Seeing people find their purpose and align with it is deeply fulfilling,’ she stated. ‘It feels like I’m talking to my former self, offering what I didn’t receive at that age.’