Both Sides of The Coin: The Story of The Central Bank of Barbados 1972-2017

55 During the decade after 1976 the Bank went through a period of consolidation. As its responsibilities expanded and its priorities shifted there were changes in staff, the organisational structure and operating style. An important undertaking was the construction of its new headquarters building which, in addition to accommodating all of the Bank’s staff at one location for the first time, transformed the Bridgetown skyline. The Bank also sought to establish links with regional and international banking and financial organisations and ascribed greater importance to its relations with the public. Activities during this period set the tone for much of the Bank’s future work as the management and staff built on their experience. CHANGES IN PERSONNEL AND STRUCTURE Managerial changes Blackman was re-appointed governor in 1977 and 1982, serving under three different ministers of finance from two political parties in the process. 33 This was an achievement of some note since it helped to cement the Bank’s reputation as a non-partisan institution and led to the governor being awarded the Gold Crown of Merit (GCM) for his contribution to the public service in the 1982 Independence Honours. During the period, there were few changes in the composition of the Board of Directors, but relatively more of the appointees were from the private CHAPTER 3 CONSOLIDATION: 1976 TO 1986 Chapter 3: Consolidation: 1976 to 1986