Graeme Smith is to retire as the Chief Executive of Jersey Business, after eight years in the role.
During that time Graeme has led a restructuring and resourcing of the organisation to build resilience, create innovative products and services and establish a strong working relationship with local businesses and partner organisations such as the Jersey Chamber of Commerce and the Institute of Directors, Jersey Branch.
Under Graeme’s direction, Jersey Business has helped forge connections between Government and Industry, enabling better dialogue and understanding around the economic opportunities and challenges the Island is facing. At no time was this more evident than during the pandemic, when Jersey Business was charged with delivering a range of government assistance to local businesses and offered vital support and advice for businesses that were struggling to cope.
Prior to joining Jersey Business, Graeme enjoyed a long career in regional and international banking, taking on senior leadership roles. Commenting on his decision to retire, Graeme said, “I believe there comes a time in any leadership role when you must hand the baton to someone else, so that the work you have instigated can be taken on to the next level; and that time has come for me.
“The last eight years have been so rewarding, with many successes to celebrate and some very challenging times to navigate but the team has been outstanding in delivering a service of which we can all rightly be proud. I will be leaving the organisation in capable hands, ready to support my successor and drive the business forward.”
Jennifer Carnegie, Chair of Jersey Business added: “Graeme has been the pilot of our ship through some very stormy waters, but he has always remained unfazed, focused, and empathetic to our staff, our clients, and our mission. His style of leadership is a role model for all business owners and leaders. He will leave the organisation stronger and fitter, able to grasp opportunities and manage challenges for the benefit of all Jersey businesses and the Island’s economic wellbeing.”
Deputy Kirsten Morel, Minister for Economic Development, Sport, Leisure, and Culture said: “I wish Graeme all the best for his future. His service to Jersey Business, and to businesses in Jersey, has been unfaltering through both calm and turbulent times. He played a vital role in designing Jersey’s economic response to Covid and helping island businesses through the pandemic. His contribution to bridging Government economic and regulatory policy, and businesses’ need for flexibility to flourish has been invaluable.
“Small business is the mainstay of our economy and the work of Jersey Business in helping entrepreneurs start and succeed in business is invaluable. Under Graeme’s stewardship his team has driven and helped sustain significant economic growth for Jersey for which he, and they, are to be heartily thanked.”
Graeme Smith say that he is not retiring from business completely. While he is looking forward to spending more time with his family, he will maintain his current Non-Executive Directorships and explore further opportunities to share his expertise and business knowledge.
The process to find a replacement for Graeme Smith will be overseen by the Appointments Commission and will begin in early September.
