Alderney’s new Head of Operations has swapped a Colonel’s uniform for island life – and a mission to help foster a ‘positive and resilient’ outlook for the community.
James Robinson CBE (pictured) has been finding his feet at Island Hall for a few weeks where he is bringing his experience to the States of Alderney’s operations.
A key aspect of his job is to provide visionary leadership and build effective relationships with stakeholders including States Members, the community and business partners.
“I wanted a role that allows me to get things done in a people-oriented way and with a touch of adventure,” he said.
Coming from an Army family, his officer training at Sandhurst was followed by operational service in hotspots such as Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan. His last job in the Army was Head of the Brigade of Gurkhas during which time he was responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations with Nepal, India and Brunei.
He left the Army as a full colonel after 36 years’ service since when he has undertaken a number of security and management consultancy projects in Riyadh, Kabul, Qatar, Jordan and for the UK G7 summit in Cornwall. He also managed his borough’s response to Covid for six months leading 3000 volunteers to support the local community.
“I am here to help create a positive and resilient future for Alderney while seeking to protect its unique environment and heritage,” added Mr Robinson. “I had a hugely varied life in the Army that took me all around the world solving interesting challenges and I hope I can add value here.”
