Speakers

Ms. Charlene Soentik is an economist who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Anton de Kom University of Suriname and earned her MBA from the FHR School of Governance in collaboration with Maastricht University. She is currently completing her Master of Public Administration (MOA) at the FHR School of Governance, also in partnership with Maastricht University.

Ms. Soentik has completed numerous specialized trainings and workshops with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), focusing on macroeconomics, debt management, and project management. This combination of academic and technical training has equipped her with a strong analytical foundation and a practical understanding of international best practices in public sector financial governance.

She began her career at the Suriname Debt Management Office (SDMO) as an Accountant Specialist and supported the Back Office, contributing to operational debt recording and reporting. In 2017, she advanced to the role of Front Office Manager, leading creditor relations, market analysis, and external financing operations. In 2022, she joined the Public Implementation Unit, where she supported high‑level project execution as a financial specialist.

In October 2025, Ms. Soentik was appointed Administrator General of the Suriname Debt Management Office. In this capacity, she provides strategic leadership for national debt policy, oversees compliance with international reporting standards, and guides institutional strengthening efforts across the public financial management system.