Dr. the Honourable Norman Dunn was first appointed as Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC) in September 2020 and served in that capacity until May 2023. He is currently the Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
He first entered representational politics in November 2016 as the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) standard-bearer for South East St. Mary and was elected Member of Parliament (MP) after successfully contesting the October 2017 by-election.
His re-election in September 2020 follows a landslide victory at the polls by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) where he secured the largest poll margin in the history of South East St. Mary to again serve as Member of Parliament.
Now in his second consecutive term as a Member of Parliament and Minister of State, Dr. Dunn continues to leverage his experiences, technical skills and competencies, to advance national development.
Dr. Dunn a native of St Mary was born in Annotto Bay and completed his secondary education at Dinthill Technical High School. Subsequently, he pursued his higher education at the University of Technology, where he earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree. Later, he expanded his academic horizons at the University of the West Indies Mona by attaining a
Bachelor of Science Degree in Management, Economics and Accounting, Master of Science Degree in International Business and a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree.
A pharmacist by profession with over 25 years’ of experience, he is the proud owner of pharmacies across Jamaica. He also served in numerous capacities as Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of Jamaica, Vice Chairman of South East Regional Health Authority, Vice Chairman of Kingston Public Hospital, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Jamaica, Vice President of the Jamaica Association of Private Pharmacy Owners, First Vice President of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists and Former board member of Health Corporation of Jamaica
Dr. Dunn is also the recipient of the Badge of Honour for meritorious service to the profession of pharmacy, Justice of the Peace for the parish of St. Andrew and a former JDF Army Reserve.
Much of Dr Dunn’s early upbringing contributed significantly to his notable business acumen and political achievements. At an early age, he quickly learnt to manage resources having sold in the market with his mother. This hands-on exposure allowed him to develop essential skills in handling resources effectively. Moreover, growing up in a diverse community, Dr Dunn learned to interact and engage with individuals from various backgrounds, fostering his ability to communicate and connect with people from all walks of life. These qualities have greatly contributed to his success in the political realm, where the ability to connect with diverse constituents and understand their perspectives is of utmost importance.