ECCB Mourns the Passing of Cybersecurity Expert Derrick Leonce

Derrick Jonathan Leonce, a prominent figure in Caribbean cybersecurity, passed away at the age of 53, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and expertise. Leonce, who served as the Senior Information Security Analyst and Unit Head of Cybersecurity and Risk Management at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), was mourned by the institution and the wider regional IT community. His untimely death represents a significant loss, not only for the ECCB but also for the burgeoning field of cybersecurity in the Caribbean, where Leonce played a pioneering role. He was remembered for his professionalism, deep knowledge, and unwavering commitment to enhancing the region’s digital resilience.

Leonce’s career spanned over two decades and encompassed a diverse range of experiences in both the Caribbean and North America. He garnered a strong reputation for his skills in information assurance, risk governance, digital forensics, and disaster recovery. Before joining the ECCB in 2017, he held key cybersecurity positions at BMO Financial Group in Canada, including Senior Advisor at the Cyber Security Operations Center. His extensive background also included roles at Sentry Metrics in Toronto, where he focused on device management, and at the Eastern Caribbean Home Mortgage Bank (ECHMB) in St. Kitts as IT Manager. He also provided consultancy services, developing tailored IT assurance solutions for various organizations. This breadth of experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the cybersecurity landscape and equipped him to address the evolving challenges faced by financial institutions and other organizations.

Leonce’s dedication to professional development was evident in his pursuit of higher education and industry certifications. He held a Master of Science in Information Technology (Security) from the University of Liverpool, providing him with a solid academic foundation. Furthermore, he constantly sought to expand his knowledge and stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. He completed a program in Cybersecurity Leadership and Strategy at Florida International University and obtained the ISO27001 Certified ISMS Foundation certification from the International Board for IT Governance Qualifications (IBITGQ). His impressive list of credentials also included CISSP, CISM, CISA, CRISC, GCFA, GREM, CHFI, and MCSE, demonstrating his commitment to adhering to global standards in cybersecurity, compliance, and IT governance.

During his tenure at the ECCB, Leonce significantly contributed to strengthening the Bank’s cybersecurity framework, bolstering its digital resilience, and enhancing risk governance across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). His leadership in these critical areas was instrumental in safeguarding the financial stability of the region and protecting against the increasing threats of cyberattacks. He was highly regarded for his expertise in disaster recovery, business continuity planning, project management, and risk management, all of which were vital to ensuring the ECCB’s operational continuity and the security of its sensitive data. His colleagues valued not only his technical proficiency but also his mentorship, willingness to share his knowledge, and his warm and approachable demeanor.

The ECCB expressed profound sadness at the loss of their esteemed colleague, emphasizing his significant contributions to the organization and the region. They described him as a valued member of the team whose dedication and professionalism were exemplary. Leonce’s impact extended beyond his technical expertise, as he was known for his supportive nature and willingness to guide and mentor others. His colleagues remembered him fondly for his warmth and approachability, traits that fostered a collaborative and positive work environment. His passing left a void within the ECCB family and the wider Caribbean IT community.

A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the life of Derrick Jonathan Leonce was held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the Antioch Baptist Church in St. Kitts. The service provided an opportunity for family, friends, colleagues, and members of the community to pay their respects and reflect on his remarkable life and contributions. Following the service, a private cremation was held at the Liamuiga Funeral Home. Derrick Jonathan Leonce’s legacy as a cybersecurity pioneer, a dedicated professional, and a respected colleague will continue to inspire future generations in the Caribbean and beyond.