Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development has appointed Justin Bellinger as Chair of the new Innovate Guernsey Board, following a competitive recruitment process involving seven applicants.
Justin (pictured) brings a wealth of experience in business leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship to the role. He currently serves as Director of NionNet, Non-Executive Director of Guernsey Electricity, and Director of the Guernsey Chamber of Commerce.
His previous roles include 15 years at Sure, where he played a key role in projects such as the development of the Channel Islands’ largest data centre, the rollout of 3G and 4G mobile networks, and the Guernsey Fibre programme – a public-private partnership delivering fibre connectivity to every premises in the island.
The Innovate Guernsey Board was established to support the delivery of the island’s digital economy vision and to implement a Guernsey Innovation Plan under the wider Digital Framework. It will work with the Committee to help align digital innovation efforts with States of Guernsey priorities and industry needs.
Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller, Committee member and political lead for Digital, Skills and Entrepreneurship, said: “We have had a superb interest and community engagement with the Innovate Guernsey Board selection process. It is heartening to see such positive and strong response and the desire of many to contribute to Guernsey’s future economy and economic vision. The interview panel was impressed with the quality of applicants and their presentations, and I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to take part.
“Justin stood out for his broad experience in business transformation, digital strategy, and innovation. His leadership will help shape the next phase of the Digital Framework with a focus on entrepreneurship, test-bedding, and attracting private investment. We’re very pleased to welcome him to this important role.”
Justin said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as Chair of the Innovate Guernsey Board and would like to thank the panel for placing their trust in me. I’m very much looking forward to working with my fellow Board members and stakeholders across the island to help drive innovation, attract investment, and support sustainable economic growth – tapping into the rich vein of ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit that has long been part of Guernsey’s culture.”
