The Chair of the Jersey branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has called on all islanders to let the outside world know that Jersey is ‘open for business’ and an attractive place for young professionals, as well as students, to come to.
Speaking at the organisation’s Annual Members Meeting (AMM), held on 23 May, Chris Clark (pictured), entering the last year of his three-year term as Chairman of the IoD Jersey, said: “The IoD strives to ensure that the island retains the simple things which differentiates us – simple, clear and consistent policy, taxation and a brand positioning statement which will maintain our place as an attractive place to live, work and prosper despite the inexorable challenges we face beyond our shores courtesy of UK opinion or media mischief
“We are all responsible for sharing the positive aspects of island life to ensure that we remain attractive as a jurisdiction for those looking to step out of the UK or elsewhere and land in a place that is truly ‘open for business’.
"I fear that the island is not seen, beyond our shores, as a stepping stone for professional people but more a retirement location. Thirty-plus years contributing to our island economy is more favourable to five, therefore I will continue to support Highlands in my last year and their aspirations to become a South Coast University campus.
"[I will also support] Digital Jersey’s efforts to diversify our economy through their Sandbox Jersey and other initiatives. [These encourage] a young and dynamic sector to gain greater traction which in turn will help to protect our key industry of financial services as they themselves embrace Artificial Intelligence and modern ways of working to provide continued, exceptional services and experiences to their clients.”
Committee members
At the meeting, IoD Jersey members reappointed a committee to support and represent the views of members for the coming twelve months. They are: Alison Creed, Mary Curtis, Lesley Dickie, Becky Hill, Shelley Kendrick, Adam Riddell, John Shenton, Lisa Springate and Ross Willcox.
Adam Riddell stepped down at the end of the meeting and has been replaced by Julien Morel. Kirsten Higgins remains Branch Officer, a role she has now held for 11 years.
Also announced at the AMM were plans to continue to focus on diversity and encourage community engagement amongst members. Details were also confirmed for the IoD Jersey’s 2018 Annual Debate, which is sponsored by Carey Olsen and titled ‘Is Jersey’s Economic Model Sustainable?’ with PwC Disruption Partner Leo Johnson as keynote speaker.
Chris Clark added: “In my second year, I am proud of what has been achieved by the local branch with regards to our influence in government policy but my desire is to ensure we deliver a greater, more positive impact across the island. To ensure that the government has a conduit to industry, we will continue to work in partnership with the Chamber where policy requires a strong, joined-up response.
"We will strive to ensure quarterly meetings occur with the Chief Minister and the new Chief Executive of the States of Jersey so that we may be better placed in understanding their challenges, while providing us an opportunity to be both a sounding board and critical friend.”
The IoD Jersey has a membership of around 600, including business leaders representing a broad range of industries.