From 1987 to 1995, Jose George served as Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), where he played a pivotal role in advancing the fiscal and economic agenda of the Government of the Virgin Islands. His tenure was marked by a strong emphasis on intergovernmental collaboration, strategic financial management, and policies designed to strengthen the territory’s economic foundation.
George was deeply engaged in economic policy discussions, particularly in shaping the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Government of the Virgin Islands. His involvement in these high-level negotiations underscored his commitment to improving the territory’s fiscal relationship with federal partners and ensuring that federal assistance was managed in a way that supported local priorities and sustainable development.
In addition to his leadership at OMB, George brought valuable experience from his role as Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority (VIHFA). During his tenure there, he contributed to housing development and financial planning for public housing and affordable homeownership programs. His dual experience in fiscal management and housing policy gave him a comprehensive understanding of how financial planning could directly impact community development and quality of life in the Virgin Islands.
George’s expertise extended beyond public service. Following his government career, he continued to apply his financial acumen in the private sector as Comptroller at Chase Manhattan Bank, where he oversaw institutional financial operations and compliance. This transition reflected both his versatility and his reputation as a skilled financial manager with deep knowledge of both public and private fiscal systems.
Throughout his career, Jose George was recognized for his balanced leadership, analytical insight, and commitment to fiscal integrity. His work helped to strengthen the Virgin Islands’ financial infrastructure and fostered greater cooperation between local and federal entities. His leadership at OMB laid the groundwork for future directors to build upon in advancing the territory’s long-term financial stability and development.
