Rodney Payne, CEO

Strategic Innovation. Digital Transformation. Caribbean Development.

Rodney H. L. Payne is a passionate and innovative strategist with a distinguished background in educational technology and strategic planning for regional development. With a career spanning over 25 years, Rodney creates the nexus between complex organizational systems and operational success, leveraging cutting-edge solutions to drive business transformation.

Professional Profile

Rodney is relaunching his independent consulting partnership having recently demitted office as the Director of Technological Innovation at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC®). He brings the full weight of his formidable knowledge of design and integrating agile IT systems to Houston Nexus Partners. A Vincentian by birth and an Engineer by training, he has dedicated his career to the advancement of Caribbean education and development, believing firmly that technology is the key to unlocking the region's potential.

His leadership style is built on a foundation of integrity and collaboration. He is committed to fostering environments where data-driven insights lead to impactful strategies and sustainable development.

Key Achievements & Expertise

Rodney has led the "e-Everything" strategy at the Council, transitioning the organization toward becoming an ‘IT Intelligent Organization’. His expertise includes:

• Artificial Intelligence Strategy: Created the CXC® AI Policy and led the introduction of the Responsible Generative AI Policy Framework for the Regional Secondary Education System.

• Operational Efficiency & Cost Reduction:

• Negotiated perpetual rights to the assessment platform, saving over $500,000.00 per year in operational expenditure.

• Secured an infrastructure hosting agreement saving over $250,000.00 per year in capital expenditure while strengthening disaster recovery.

• Implemented a Unified Communication System that reduced direct operating costs by approximately $100,000.00 per year. This investment 10 years ahead of the pandemic allowed operations to continue seamlessly in 2020.

• Strategic Transformation: Advanced the Technology Excellence and e-Transition under the Strategic Plan 2021–2025.

Beyond the Boardroom

A Senior Member of the IEEE, with over 30 years in the institute, Rodney stays abreast of rapid technological changes and their application to development, education and global business.

Outside of his professional endeavours, Rodney is a Christian family man, married with two daughters who share his thirst for lifelong learning. He maintains an active interest in Table Tennis, the Kaiso Artform, Photography, and West Indies Cricket.

"I aim to use my skills to build a collaborative environment with a shared vision... optimizing operations, maintaining relevance, and ensuring sustainability." — Rodney H. L. Payne